What Do the Different Layers of Skin Do?
There are three layers of the skin: the epidermis, the dermis, and the subdermis. Epidermis: This is the outer, or top, layer of skin. It is responsible mostly for protection, homeostasis, and the absorption of nutrients. The epidermis alone is made of four to five layers (there are five layers on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet), including the stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum, and stratum corneum. The main type of cell in the epidermis is the keratinocyte, which contains keratin, a fibrous protein. In addition, there are basal cells and melanocytes. Basal cells are at the base of the epidermis and melanocytes create melanin, which gives the skin its pigmentation. Dermis: This is the layer underneath the epidermis. It’s dense and sensitive. It’s made of blood vessels, connective tissue, sweat glands, hair follicles, and nerves. This is where collagen and elastin reside. These two materials give the skin its flexibility and ward off wrin
