Platinum Author
Today we will discussing the largest organ in the body, which is the skin. Skin is a huge indicator of a person's age. It makes up an average of six pounds of body mass. It is characterized for being elastic, sensitive, and durable. It's composed of three main layers, which are subsequently subdivided into sub-layers called tissues.
The uppermost layer is the epidermis. Homing the protein keratin, its role is that of protecting the under layers of skin from adverse weather, water, high and low temperatures, and so on. Keratin is a hard protein, also present in nails and hair, utilized by the body not only for structure but for permeability control and heat protection. Also prominent in the epidermis is melanin, a protein responsible for giving your skin its pigmentation and tone.
While these are the main cells affected by aging, there are numerous other important cells on your skin. They migrate to the surface daily, sloughing off to be replaced by new, regenerated skin.
Beneath the epidermis is a layer called dermis. Its main function is to provide structural integrity and strength to the skin, as well as granting it and elasticity. Because the dermis must be so prone to stretching, it is comprised mainly of collagen and elastin.
The third and final layer is the hypodermis (from the Greek "hypo," meaning under, and "dermis," meaning skin). The hypodermis provides the skin's sensitivity (ability to respond to touch), as it connects the upper layers of skin with the body's glands and nerves. Below the hypodermis lies a layer of fat, useful for insulation and heat preservation.
Also found in the hypodermis for the purpose of temperature control are the sweat glands. These are found parallel to the sebaceous glands that reside right beneath the hair follicles.
Skin is as important to the body as any other vital organ. Especially when it comes to aging, how your skin looks is the first indicator of how old you really are. Stay tuned future newsletters to read all about how the skin ages and how to slow down its inevitable effects.
About this Author
If you are would like to know more about your skin and skincare products then check out this great blog for helpful Anti Aging Articles and start to make a difference to your skin today.
http://www.health-and-beauty-advice.com/anti-aging/anti-aging-articles.php
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Bourke
