Skin Functions
This function allows nerve fibers to detect heat, cold, touch, pain, and pressure.
Sensation
Also called the hypodermis, this deepest component is largely adipose tissue and cushions the body.
Subcutaneous layer / hypodermis
These keratin-containing cells make up about 95% of the epidermis.
Keratinocytes
These cells produce pigment granules and help protect the body from UV radiation.
Melanocytes
This fibrous protein forms elastic tissue and gives skin its elasticity.
Elastin
This protective film is made of sebum, lipids, sweat, and water and has an average pH of about 5.5.
Acid mantle
This support layer is about 25 times thicker than the epidermis and contains blood and lymph vessels.
Dermis
Also called the basal cell layer, this is the bottom layer of the epidermis where active cell division occurs.
Stratum germinativum
These pigment granules are produced by melanocytes and carry melanin.
Melanosomes
These glands are attached to follicles and produce sebum.
Sebaceous glands
Sweat glands and blood vessel dilation help perform this function when the body gets too warm.
Heat regulation / thermoregulation
This deeper, denser layer of the dermis is composed mainly of collagen and elastin.
Reticular layer
Known as the spiny layer, this is the largest layer of the epidermis.
Stratum spinosum
This pigment helps protect cells by absorbing and blocking UV radiation.
Melanin
These glands produce perspiration and help prevent overheating.
Sudoriferous glands
Sudoriferous glands perform this function by releasing perspiration.
Excretion
This upper dermal layer connects the dermis to the epidermis and contains dermal papillae.
Papillary layer
Natural moisturizing factors and intercellular lipids are produced in this grainy layer.
Stratum granulosum
This enzyme stimulates melanocytes and melanin production.
Tyrosinase
This fibrous protein gives skin strength, is important for wound healing, and makes up about 70% of the dermis.
Collagen
Topical products can enter through follicle walls, sebaceous glands, between cells, or through cells as part of this skin function.
Absorption
This junction connects the dermis to the epidermis and provides strength and adhesion.
Dermal/epidermal junction (DEJ)
This top, outermost epidermal layer contains hardened corneocytes and is where estheticians work extensively.
Stratum corneum
These are the two types of melanin: one red-to-yellow and one dark-brown-to-black.
Pheomelanin and eumelanin
Hair, nails, sweat glands, and oil glands are all classified as these.
Appendages of the skin