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The epidermis is the outermost of the three layers that comprise the skin, the inner layers being the dermis and hypodermis. [1] The epidermis layer provides a barrier to infection from environmental pathogens [2] and regulates the amount of water released from the body into the atmosphere through transepidermal water loss.
This layer is composed of polyhedral keratinocytes. [3] [4] These are joined with desmosomes. [3] Their spiny (Latin, spinosum) appearance is due to shrinking of the microfilaments between desmosomes that occurs when stained with H&E. Keratinization begins in the stratum spinosum, [5] although the actual keratinocytes begin in the stratum ...
Since the skin layer is in radiative equilibrium with the atmosphere and the sun, its temperature underlies a daily cycle. Even small changes in the skin temperature can lead to large changes in atmospheric circulation. This makes skin temperature a widely used quantity in weather forecasting and climate science.
A failure to correctly regulate these processes leads to skin disorders developing. [4] Cells of the stratum corneum contain a dense network of keratin, a protein that helps keep the skin hydrated by preventing water evaporation. These cells can also absorb water, further aiding in hydration. In addition, this layer is responsible for the ...
The skin weighs an average of four kilograms, covers an area of two square metres, and is made of three distinct layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. [1] The two main types of human skin are: glabrous skin, the hairless skin on the palms and soles (also referred to as the "palmoplantar" surfaces), and hair-bearing skin. [3]
Individuals prone to dry skin or skin sloughing may use a number of methods to prevent the condition in the first place. Decreasing exposure to harsh environments can decrease dry, peeling skin. Avoid extreme heat: Showering or bathing should be done with warm water as opposed to hot. Additionally, heaters and fires produce dry heat.
The Malpighian layer (stratum mucosum or stratum malpighii) of the epidermis is generally defined as both the stratum basale (basal layer) and the thicker stratum spinosum (spinous layer/prickle cell layer) immediately above it as a single unit, [1] [2] although it is occasionally defined as the stratum basale specifically, [3] or the stratum ...
As they are water-soluble themselves, excessive water contact may leach them and inhibit their normal functions which is why prolonged contact with water makes the skin drier. [14] The intercellular lipid layer helps prevent the loss of natural moisturizing factor by sealing the outside of each corneocyte.