Skin Deep

Skin Physiology

Smallest unit of skin, made up of protoplasm - a jelly-like living matter of water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, granules, crystals and other matter. Groups of similar cells form tissue. Cells are responsible for reproduction and metabolism (the process through which food assimilates into the cells and is transformed into energy and nutrients). When a cell reaches maturity, it reproduces itself.

Structure of the Skin

The skin is divided into three layers. The outer layer is the epidermis: the part we see and touch. It is made of sheets of flattened cells that are either dead or dying because newly formed cells push the older cells upwards to the surface where they change shape, die and are shed. The Skin Culture Peel away treatment will never penetrate deeper than the epidermis - one of the reasons what we can guarantee the 100% safety of the treatment. The middle layer is the dermis: which contains hair follicles, oil and sweat glands, nerve endings and blood vessels. It also contains collagen and elastin which support the skin and give it suppleness and elasticity. With age these gradually deteriorate, causing the skin to sag and wrinkle. The dermis is seven times thicker than the epidermis. The innermost layer of the skin is the hypodermis. This contains fat cells, veins and muscles. It acts as a cushion on which the skin moves.
Characteristics of the Skin
Skin pigmentation varies and is determined by racial genetics. All skin contains Melanin, which tans the skin and protects it from over-exposure to the sun radiation. Ruddy skin is not a color, but a result of capillaries close to the skin. Pale skin is a result of capillaries being far below the skin surface. Skin texture varies in thickness - generally, a man's skin is thicker than a woman's. Elasticity allows the body to stretch and bend, moving freely without tearing. The network of collagen and elastin fibers found in the dermis gives the skin flexibility. The skin controls the body's temperature through the secretion of sweat. Skin is a sensory organ with which we touch and feel. The skin is water water-resistant.

Skin Chemistry

Skin is made up of about 70% water, 25% protein, 3% fatty acids and minerals. The term pH stands for "potential in hydrogen" and measures the relationship between acidity and quantity of free hydrogen ions. pH is measured on a scale of 1 to 14. pH readings of 1 through 7 are acid. Readings from 7 through 14 are alkaline. Normal pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. Dry skin has a pH of about 4.5. Oily skin is normally at a 6.5 pH. Skin acidity helps maintain water in deep layers of the skin tissue.