Skin Structure - Skin Structure Information

Skin consists of three layers the epidermis, the dermis, and the subcutaneous tissue. The surface epidermis is a relatively thin layer. Beneath the epidermis is the thicker and the much stronger
dermis. The subcutaneous tissue or the fat containing layer lies below the dermis.

The epidermis: The epidermis is a fairly thin layer. Its thickness varies around the body, depending on the special needs of that area. For instance, the epidermis over the eyelids is particularly thin, while that over the palms and soles is very thick.

The epidermis is itself made up of several layers. On the surface is the horny layer - the stratum corneum. This layer is made up of dead cells, which are continuously being shed. The cells are shed off as small aggregates which are normally too small to be seen; sometimes, however, these aggregates become larger and are then visible as scales. This is exactly what happens in dandruff and when our skin is deprived of moisture. Below the layer of dead cells are stacks of living cells comprising the stratum malpighi. This layer produces the main skin protein known