Our Amazing Skin II
Part II: Holding Moisture and Protecting the Body
Let’s focus on the outer layer, the Epidermis where 25 to 30 layers of cells are constantly growing and changing as they make their way to the surface. In the deeper epidermal layers the cells are relatively round in shape. As they move to the surface the cells flatten out to become more shield-like. The cell membranes become cell envelops and the proteins holding the cells together become harder and less permeable. It’s a bit like bricks and mortar.
This outer layer is called the Stratum Corneum, and serves as a two-way barrier between the body and the environment. With an average of 16 layers in body skin and 9 layers in facial skin, the stratum corneum keeps body moisture in and blocks absorption of external substances such as bacteria, dirt and fluids.
Over the past few years some people have expressed concern about body care products and possible absorption through the skin. To read some reports you might think the skin was a sponge! In biological terms the epidermis and stratum corneum are a long way from blood vessels and sources of moisture. They form a pretty tough barrier, or we’d get water-logged just taking a shower!
Yes, there are known compounds that are absorbed through the skin. A few are carefully utilized in medical treatments, such as nicotine patches, and in anti-aging products in very mild form.
At Morningside Products our goal is to help support the skin in its natural functions, particularly retaining moisture. Our gentle cleansers and rich body lotions are formulated to provide additional protection to the outermost layers of skin only. Therefore, Morningside does NOT use these compounds (you mean penetration enhancers, correct?) in ANY of our formulations. All of our ingredients and formulations are approved and tested for safety and we closely follow the laws and standards set by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), the Personal Care Product Council (PCPC), and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). Read more in “Fact or Fiction” or “How to Read and Ingredient Deck”.
Learn more about the skin in Our Amazing Skin: Part I.
* Many of the facts and figures in this article may be found online in articles about the skin. Sites include: Wikipedia.com, howthingswork.com, and dermatology.about.com. This article does not represent medical information or advice.
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