Understanding The Epidermis: Functions, Composition, and More
6 min read
OCT 12, 2023 - by Felip Gerdes
Understanding The Epidermis: Functions, Composition, and More
6 min read
OCT 12, 2023 - by Felip Gerdes
The skin is the largest organ of the body. While it may appear somewhat simple compared to other organs, the skin is actually a complex and layered structure composed of the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis layers. When developing a skin care routine for your skin, it’s important to understand which layer a skin characteristic manifests in so it can be properly addressed. Let’s take a closer look at the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis, and signs of epidermal conditions!
The skin is the largest organ of the body. While it may appear somewhat simple compared to other organs, the skin is actually a complex and layered structure composed of the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis layers. When developing a skin care routine for your skin, it’s important to understand which layer a skin characteristic manifests in so it can be properly addressed. Let’s take a closer look at the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis, and signs of epidermal conditions!
01
What is the epidermis?
The epidermis is the thinnest layer of the skin and the body's first line of defense against pathogens, UV radiation, chemicals, and injury. Beyond this, the epidermis is responsible for maintaining our health and well-being in vital ways.
01
What is the epidermis?
The epidermis is the thinnest layer of the skin and the body's first line of defense against pathogens, UV radiation, chemicals, and injury. Beyond this, the epidermis is responsible for maintaining our health and well-being in vital ways.
Where is the epidermis located?
While the epidermis covers the entire body, it is not uniformly distributed. 1 Areas that frequently move like the neck and face have a thinner epidermal layer. The epidermis on your palms and soles of the feet, which experience near constant friction and pressure, are much thicker to protect these areas.
Where is the epidermis located?
While the epidermis covers the entire body, it is not uniformly distributed. 1 Areas that frequently move like the neck and face have a thinner epidermal layer. The epidermis on your palms and soles of the feet, which experience near constant friction and pressure, are much thicker to protect these areas.
02
What is the function of the epidermis?
The epidermis is responsible for a number of critical functions that go far beyond skin’s superficial appearance.
02
What is the function of the epidermis?
The epidermis is responsible for a number of critical functions that go far beyond skin’s superficial appearance.
Protection
One of the primary functions of the epidermis is to protect the body from external threats
. Keratinocytes and melanocytes are key cells in this process. Keratinocytes are the most common cells in the epidermis. These cells secrete lipids (fats) onto the skin surface to form a water barrier; this keeps the skin hydrated and helps protect skin from physical damage. 1Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, a protein that protects the skin cell against UV radiation. 1 Melanin is what gives our skin color and tone. UV radiation induces melanin production within the skin causing the skin to tan.
Protection
One of the primary functions of the epidermis is to protect the body from external threats
. Keratinocytes and melanocytes are key cells in this process. Keratinocytes are the most common cells in the epidermis. These cells secrete lipids (fats) onto the skin surface to form a water barrier; this keeps the skin hydrated and helps protect skin from physical damage. 1Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, a protein that protects the skin cell against UV radiation. 1 Melanin is what gives our skin color and tone. UV radiation induces melanin production within the skin causing the skin to tan.
Imunity
The epidermal layer is a crucial part of our ability to fight infection and disease. It protects the inner body from pathogens and other sources of infection. Additionally, the epidermis is armed with immune cells that are stationed to protect the skin from pathogens. 2
Imunity
The epidermal layer is a crucial part of our ability to fight infection and disease. It protects the inner body from pathogens and other sources of infection. Additionally, the epidermis is armed with immune cells that are stationed to protect the skin from pathogens. 2
Homeostasis
The epidermis is also involved in regulating body temperature. The epidermis has specialized structures that help it dissipate excess heat from the body through sweat glands. 3 As the water in our sweat evaporates, the skin cools.
Homeostasis
The epidermis is also involved in regulating body temperature. The epidermis has specialized structures that help it dissipate excess heat from the body through sweat glands. 3 As the water in our sweat evaporates, the skin cools.
Vitamin D
The skin is not only a passive agent of the body but also a factory dedicated to producing an essential vitamin in the body: vitamin D. The epidermis in particular is the layer that absorbs UVB radiation and converts chemical precursors into active ingredients that your liver uses to make vitamin D. 4 Vitamin D helps us tackle various diseases and maintain strong immune, bone, brain, and mental health.
Vitamin D
The skin is not only a passive agent of the body but also a factory dedicated to producing an essential vitamin in the body: vitamin D. The epidermis in particular is the layer that absorbs UVB radiation and converts chemical precursors into active ingredients that your liver uses to make vitamin D. 4 Vitamin D helps us tackle various diseases and maintain strong immune, bone, brain, and mental health.
03
Layers of the epidermis
The epidermis is composed of several distinct layers, each with its unique characteristics and functions. These layers, from the outermost to the innermost, include:Stratum corneum - The stratum corneum is made of a layer of dead keratinocytes 3-30 cells thick. These dead skin cells help form a hydrophobic layer that locks moisture into the skin; this layer varies the most in thickness across the body. Stratum lucidum - This layer of the epidermis is only found in thicker skin like that in the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. Made of flattened dead skin cells it helps give thicker skin more structural strength. Stratum granulosum - This layer is responsible for transforming keratinocytes into the tough waterproofed cells that make up the outer layer of the epidermis. The stratum granulosum produces keratin precursors and the protein glue lamellar that hold the skin cells together Stratum spinosum - Sitting above the lowest layer of the epidermis, the stratum spinosum is made of spiky ridges of keratinocytes that help the skin move while binding it together. This layer of the skin also contains dendritic cells responsible for fighting disease and infection. Stratum basale - The deepest layer of the epidermis is made of an active stem cell that produces the keratinocytes which make up the vast majority of cells in the upper epidermis. It is also where melanocytes, the cells that give our skin tone and color can be found.1
03
Layers of the epidermis
The epidermis is composed of several distinct layers, each with its unique characteristics and functions. These layers, from the outermost to the innermost, include:Stratum corneum - The stratum corneum is made of a layer of dead keratinocytes 3-30 cells thick. These dead skin cells help form a hydrophobic layer that locks moisture into the skin; this layer varies the most in thickness across the body. Stratum lucidum - This layer of the epidermis is only found in thicker skin like that in the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. Made of flattened dead skin cells it helps give thicker skin more structural strength. Stratum granulosum - This layer is responsible for transforming keratinocytes into the tough waterproofed cells that make up the outer layer of the epidermis. The stratum granulosum produces keratin precursors and the protein glue lamellar that hold the skin cells together Stratum spinosum - Sitting above the lowest layer of the epidermis, the stratum spinosum is made of spiky ridges of keratinocytes that help the skin move while binding it together. This layer of the skin also contains dendritic cells responsible for fighting disease and infection. Stratum basale - The deepest layer of the epidermis is made of an active stem cell that produces the keratinocytes which make up the vast majority of cells in the upper epidermis. It is also where melanocytes, the cells that give our skin tone and color can be found.1
04
What are common signs or symptoms of epidermis conditions?
Epidermal conditions take on a number of forms that can affect both the comfort and appearance of the skin. Here are just a few of the symptoms and causes of epidermal conditions.
04
What are common signs or symptoms of epidermis conditions?
Epidermal conditions take on a number of forms that can affect both the comfort and appearance of the skin. Here are just a few of the symptoms and causes of epidermal conditions.
Dermatitis and eczema
Dermatitis and eczema describe a group of inflammatory skin conditions that often share similar signs and symptoms, though the exact cause will vary. Symptoms include redness, itching, dryness, and even skin discoloration or flaky skin
. Eczema can be a result of your genetics or a result of your environment such as allergens, climate, infection, or even stress. 5 Eczema and atopic dermatitis are also associated with a weakened
skin barrier. Because of the broad nature of these conditions, always consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment options.Dermatitis and eczema
Dermatitis and eczema describe a group of inflammatory skin conditions that often share similar signs and symptoms, though the exact cause will vary. Symptoms include redness, itching, dryness, and even skin discoloration or flaky skin
. Eczema can be a result of your genetics or a result of your environment such as allergens, climate, infection, or even stress. 5 Eczema and atopic dermatitis are also associated with a weakened
skin barrier. Because of the broad nature of these conditions, always consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment options.Hyperpigmentation or melasma
Hyperpigmentation and melasma are both skin conditions that appear as darkening or discolouration on certain areas of the skin. These conditions manifest as dark irregular patches on the skin often in areas that receive lots of sun exposure like the face, chest, and hands. These conditions can be the result of many factors but the most common include sun exposure, hormonal changes especially following a pregnancy, menopause and genetic factors.
Hyperpigmentation or melasma
Hyperpigmentation and melasma are both skin conditions that appear as darkening or discolouration on certain areas of the skin. These conditions manifest as dark irregular patches on the skin often in areas that receive lots of sun exposure like the face, chest, and hands. These conditions can be the result of many factors but the most common include sun exposure, hormonal changes especially following a pregnancy, menopause and genetic factors.
Rough texture and scaling
Changes in skin texture is often a sign of an underlying skin condition or environmental source. Common symptoms include dryness, skin redness or irritation
, rough, and flaking skin. Root causes can include skin conditions like eczema, as well as infection, psoriasis, allergies, and even aging. 5 Treatment for changes in skin texture are varied because of the many underlying conditions that can cause these symptoms. Always consult your dermatologist before starting a treatment plan.
Rough texture and scaling
Changes in skin texture is often a sign of an underlying skin condition or environmental source. Common symptoms include dryness, skin redness or irritation
, rough, and flaking skin. Root causes can include skin conditions like eczema, as well as infection, psoriasis, allergies, and even aging. 5 Treatment for changes in skin texture are varied because of the many underlying conditions that can cause these symptoms. Always consult your dermatologist before starting a treatment plan.
05
Lifestyle tips to keep your skin healthy
There are several lifestyle practices that you can integrate into your routine to maintain a healthy epidermal layer. Here are some suggestions:
05
Lifestyle tips to keep your skin healthy
There are several lifestyle practices that you can integrate into your routine to maintain a healthy epidermal layer. Here are some suggestions:
Minimizing UV exposure
High levels of UV radiation can damage the internal structure of cells within the epidermis. 6 Adequate sun protection throughout the day is key to skin health and preventing premature skin aging.
Sunscreen during winter and even on cloudy days is equally important for protecting your skin. Try to avoid UV exposure during peak UV hours by covering up or staying indoors.Minimizing UV exposure
High levels of UV radiation can damage the internal structure of cells within the epidermis. 6 Adequate sun protection throughout the day is key to skin health and preventing premature skin aging.
Sunscreen during winter and even on cloudy days is equally important for protecting your skin. Try to avoid UV exposure during peak UV hours by covering up or staying indoors.Diet
Because cells in the epidermis are constantly replaced to replenish lost cells in the stratum corneum the body must be supplied with the energy and nutrients to rebuild the skin barrier. Protein - Keratin, one of the main proteins in the epidermis, requires energy and the right amino acids to be built. Biotin, L-cysteine, zinc, and vitamins A and C are all necessary for the production of keratin as well as bolstering the health of the skin in ways that reduce signs of aging like wrinkles. Eggs, fatty fish, fruits, nuts, and seeds are all great sources of these keratin boosting components. 7 Healthy Fats for a Strong Lipid Barrier - Unsaturated fats found in foods like fish, vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados are used by the body to bolster the lipid layer of the skin. A diet high in Omega 3 fatty acids, polysaturated, and monounsaturated fats keep the skin barrier healthy and able to retain moisture by aiding in sebum production. 8 Vitamin D - A lack of Vitamin D can be the cause of many skin conditions such as dermatitis or psoriasis. Although vitamin D is produced by the body, it can also be consumed. Consuming foods high in vitamin D like egg yolks, fatty fish like salmon or trout, mushrooms and cod liver oil can help especially if you are vitamin D deficient. 9
Diet
Because cells in the epidermis are constantly replaced to replenish lost cells in the stratum corneum the body must be supplied with the energy and nutrients to rebuild the skin barrier. Protein - Keratin, one of the main proteins in the epidermis, requires energy and the right amino acids to be built. Biotin, L-cysteine, zinc, and vitamins A and C are all necessary for the production of keratin as well as bolstering the health of the skin in ways that reduce signs of aging like wrinkles. Eggs, fatty fish, fruits, nuts, and seeds are all great sources of these keratin boosting components. 7 Healthy Fats for a Strong Lipid Barrier - Unsaturated fats found in foods like fish, vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados are used by the body to bolster the lipid layer of the skin. A diet high in Omega 3 fatty acids, polysaturated, and monounsaturated fats keep the skin barrier healthy and able to retain moisture by aiding in sebum production. 8 Vitamin D - A lack of Vitamin D can be the cause of many skin conditions such as dermatitis or psoriasis. Although vitamin D is produced by the body, it can also be consumed. Consuming foods high in vitamin D like egg yolks, fatty fish like salmon or trout, mushrooms and cod liver oil can help especially if you are vitamin D deficient. 9
Moisturize
In addition to aging, some skin conditions cause the skin to dry out. To combat these low levels of moisture be sure to incorporate a daily moisturizer into your routine. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid
are highly effective at holding onto water molecules in skin, while lipids are helpful in locking in moisture. 10
Moisturize
In addition to aging, some skin conditions cause the skin to dry out. To combat these low levels of moisture be sure to incorporate a daily moisturizer into your routine. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid
are highly effective at holding onto water molecules in skin, while lipids are helpful in locking in moisture. 10
OS-01 Proprietary Peptide
If you’re looking for a simple yet effective regimen, try topical skin care products to address overall skin and epidermal health. Consider OneSkin’s Topical Supplements, OS-01 FACE our peptide moisturizer, OS-01 EYE our peptide eye cream, OS-01 SHIELD our peptide sunscreen, and OS-01 BODY our peptide body lotion.Increase skin’s epidermal thicknessIncrease a key biomarker associated with collagen production, COL1A1 Decrease UV-induced collagen degradation enzyme, MMP3 Increase a key biomarker associated with hyaluronic acid production, HAS2
The OS-01 peptide has been shown to: 11
OS-01 Proprietary Peptide
If you’re looking for a simple yet effective regimen, try topical skin care products to address overall skin and epidermal health. Consider OneSkin’s Topical Supplements, OS-01 FACE our peptide moisturizer, OS-01 EYE our peptide eye cream, OS-01 SHIELD our peptide sunscreen, and OS-01 BODY our peptide body lotion.Increase skin’s epidermal thicknessIncrease a key biomarker associated with collagen production, COL1A1 Decrease UV-induced collagen degradation enzyme, MMP3 Increase a key biomarker associated with hyaluronic acid production, HAS2
The OS-01 peptide has been shown to: 11
Key Takeaways:
- The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and serves as the body's first line of defense against various external threats such as pathogens, UV radiation, chemicals, and injuries.
- The epidermis protects the body, plays a crucial role in the body's immune system, regulates body temperature, and produces vitamin D.
- The epidermis is composed of several layers, including the stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale.
- To maintain healthy skin, it's important to minimize UV exposure, follow a balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins (including vitamin D), and regularly moisturize to combat dryness and maintain moisture levels.
Key Takeaways:
- The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and serves as the body's first line of defense against various external threats such as pathogens, UV radiation, chemicals, and injuries.
- The epidermis protects the body, plays a crucial role in the body's immune system, regulates body temperature, and produces vitamin D.
- The epidermis is composed of several layers, including the stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale.
- To maintain healthy skin, it's important to minimize UV exposure, follow a balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins (including vitamin D), and regularly moisturize to combat dryness and maintain moisture levels.
By Felip Gerdes: Felip is an aspiring lawyer studying political science at UC San Diego. For more on Felip, check out his LinkedIn.
By Felip Gerdes: Felip is an aspiring lawyer studying political science at UC San Diego. For more on Felip, check out his LinkedIn.
References
- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470464/
- Zonari, A., et al. Senotherapeutic peptide treatment reduces biological age and senescence burden in human skin models. Npj Aging, 9(1), 1-15. 2023.
References
- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470464/
- Zonari, A., et al. Senotherapeutic peptide treatment reduces biological age and senescence burden in human skin models. Npj Aging, 9(1), 1-15. 2023.
Reviewed by Alessandra Zonari, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin
Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.
Reviewed by Alessandra Zonari, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin
Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.
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