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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.
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 ...
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.
One average square inch (6.5 cm 2) of skin holds 650 sweat glands, 20 blood vessels, 60,000 melanocytes, and more than 1,000 nerve endings. [5] [better source needed] The average human skin cell is about 30 μm in diameter, but there are variants. A skin cell usually ranges from 25 to 40 μm 2, depending on a variety of factors.
Basal cells in the basal layer (stratum basale) of the skin are sometimes referred to as basal keratinocytes. [2] Keratinocytes form a barrier against environmental damage by heat , UV radiation , water loss , pathogenic bacteria , fungi , parasites , and viruses .
Epithelium or epithelial tissue is a thin, continuous, protective layer of cells with little extracellular matrix. An example is the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. Epithelial (mesothelial) tissues line the outer surfaces of many internal organs, the corresponding inner surfaces of body cavities, and the inner surfaces of blood vessels.
The stratum spinosum (or spinous layer/prickle cell layer) [1] is a layer of the epidermis found between the stratum granulosum and stratum basale. [2] This layer is composed of polyhedral keratinocytes. [3] [4] These are joined with desmosomes. [3]
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.