Structure of Skin

Your skin is the largest organ in the body, protecting your internal organs. It’s a part of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails.

The skin has two main layers: the epidermis and the dermis.

The epidermis is the outermost layer—the part you can see and touch. Though thin, it is tough and serves as a barrier against germs and water loss.

It may look smooth, but the outer layer of the epidermis is made up of many tiny dead skin cells that constantly flake off and get replaced.

The epidermis also contains melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and protects against UV rays.

Since it lacks blood vessels, the lower layers of the epidermis receive nutrients from the dermis below through diffusion.

The dermis is much thicker and lies just beneath the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, sweat glands, oil glands, hair follicles, and nerve endings, all of which work together to support and maintain the skin.