Understanding Skin Structure: why ‘depth’ is everything
Before you can understand why your skin rituals work, it’s important to understand the skin’s structure.
You’ve probably heard about treatments or products that penetrate more deeply into the skin and why this makes them more effective. But the effectiveness actually lies in being able to target the right layer of the skin. Hyperpigmentation and dullness are typically targeted on the top layers. Sagging and wrinkles must be treated in deeper layers. Read on and begin digging deep into your skincare transformation.
the layers that make up your skin
Epidermis
The outer layer
The epidermis is the thinnest layer, but it’s responsible for protecting you from the harsh environment, with 5 layers of its own.
The epidermis also hosts different types of cells:
Keratinocytes, which produce the protein known as keratin, the main component of the epidermis.
Melanocytes, which produce your skin pigment, known as melanin.
Langerhans cells, which prevent things from getting into your skin.
key protiens + cells
Keratin
Keratin is the primary protein and makes up your hair, nails, and the surface layer of skin. Keratin is what forms the firmness of your skin and determines the skin barrier’s effectiveness.
Melanocytes
These produce your skin pigment, known as melanin.
Langerhans cells
These calls prevent things from getting into your skin.
Skincare
This layer of skin is the skin barrier. Possibly the most important function, your skin’s barrier acts as a gate for what is allowed to penetrate.
When we exfoliate, we are removing build-up and damaged cells from this layer of the skin.
common skincare concerns in the epidermis: hyperpigmentation, acne, dryness, dullness, pore size
treatments to support this layer: micro needling, facials, cryotherapy, laser therapy, chemical peels
Dermis
The middle layer
The dermis is the layer that gives your skin its fullness and plumpness. Age and the sun can damage the dermis layer and lead to wrinkles.
The dermis is a complex combination of blood vessels, hair follicles, and sebaceous (oil) glands. This layer provides collagen and elastin - 2 proteins necessary for skin health.
Fibroblasts are also in this layer to synthesize collagen and elastin.
key proteins
Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant skin protein, making up 75-80% of your skin. Collagen and elastin are responsible for warding off wrinkles and fine lines. Over time, environmental elements (sun exposure, pollution, ect) and aging reduce your skin’s ability to produce collagen.
Elastin
Elastin is found with collagen in the dermis layer. It’s responsible for providing structure to your skin and organs. Like collagen, natural elastin production decreases with age and exposure to the elements. When your skin lacks elastin, the skin will begin to wrinkle and sag.
Skincare
This layer is mostly related to aging skin and inflammation. Sebum is produced in this layer as well as hair follicles - both of which can become inflamed or cause more ongoing skin issues.
common skincare concerns in the dermis: fine lines, wrinkles, cystic acne, scarring, broken capillaries and inflammation
treatments to support this layer: micro needling, laser therapy
Hypodermis
The fatty layer
The hypodermis is the subcutaneous layer lying below the dermis. It consists largely of fat and provides the main structural support for the skin. It is interlaced with blood vessels and nerves. It’s responsible for conserving your body’s heat and protecting your vital inner organs. The reduction of tissue in this layer contributes to sagging skin and jowling.
Skincare
This layer is mostly related to loss of structure beneath the top layers. As we age or if we gain weight, we will experience sagging. This layer is typically addressed through more invasive options.
common skincare concerns in the dermis: fine lines, wrinkles, cystic acne, scarring, broken capillaries and inflammation
Did you find this helpful? Want to transform your skin - start from the bottom and work your way out. Come in for a consultation and we’ll build you a totally customized approach.
