Your skin, hair and nails mirror your state of health. Your skin has vital functions and is the largest organ in your body. Your skin is a supple, elastic tissue that covers and protects the body. Above all your skin is waterproof, bacteria proof and self - repairing.

• The skin consists of the outer layer called epidermis and the inner layer called the dermis.
• The epidermis is a layer of flat dead cells, which contain a protein called keratin. It is the keratin that makes the skin waterproof.
• The epidermis acts as a protective coating and is the thickest in the areas that are subject to wear and tear e.g. palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
• The remainder of the epidermis consists of an intermediate layer and a basal cell layer
• Cell of the basal cell layer is at the base of the epidermis that grows, divide and mature. The cells move upwards to replace those worn away at the surface. Replacement takes about two months. This layer contains melanin that colours the skin and hair.
• The dermis lies beneath the epidermis and contains most of skin's living structure. Embedded in the connective tissues within the dermis are specialised structures i.e. hair follicles, nerve ending and sebaceous (oil) and sweat glands which open to the pores on the surface of the skin. The dermis is the region that contains the blood vessels. Below the dermis is a layer of fat known as subcutaneous fat.

1. The skin manufactures Vitamin D
2. The skin tans to protect the body against ultraviolet rays
3. The skin regulates body temperature.
4. Your skin is embedded with nerves that provides sensations of touch, pressure and pain.

BLOOD VESSELS IN YOUR SKIN

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