The Skin Layers

At salons and day spas, work is done on the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. Unless a guest goes to a doctor’s office or med spa, this is the only layer that will be treated during services. The skin is a complicated organ and if any of the structures within the skin are not working properly, a rash, ingrown hair or abnormal sensation is the result. Below is a quick overview of the three layers of the skin.

1. Epidermis
 - The epidermis is the outer layer of skin. Its main functions are protection, absorption, sensation, secretion, excretion and regulation. The thickness of the epidermis varies in different types of skin. It is the thinnest on the eyelids at .05 mm and the thickest on the palms and soles at 1.5 mm.
2. Dermis - 
The dermis is responsible for the tensile strength of skin. Its main functions are to regulate temperature and to supply the epidermis with nutrient-saturated blood. Much of the body's water supply is stored within the dermis. The dermis also contains a thin arrangement of collagen and elastin fibers. Our structure, shape and elasticity is determined in this layer. The thickness is .3 mm on the eyelid and 3.0 mm on the back.
3. Subcutaneous Tissue - 
The subcutaneous tissue is a layer of fat and connective tissue that houses larger blood vessels and nerves. It is the loose, connective tissue directly beneath the dermis. These cells contain stored fat as an energy reserve. This layer also provides a layer of insulation to conserve internal body heat as well as a cushion to protect the bones and internal organs. The size of this layer varies throughout the body and from person to person.