The specific characteristics of baby’s skin
Introduction
The specific characteristics of an adult skin
The specific characteristics of a baby’s skin
The different skin types
The necessity of using tailored products
The specific characteristics of an adult skin
The skin is made up of layers:
The hypodermis
This is the deepest layer of the skin. It is tissue rich in nerves and blood vessels, which enables thermal regulation and represents an energy reserve (fat).
The dermis
This is support tissue, firmly connected to the epidermis. It is extremely important for the solidity and elasticity of the skin. It contains, among other things, elastin and collagen fibres.
The epidermis
This is stratified tissue formed by a succession of layers of cells: the keratinocytes. These are living cells attached to one another. On the surface of the epidermis, the cells die and become corneocytes, thus forming the stratum corneum, a genuine protective physical barrier.
The stratum corneum (the topmost layer) can be compared to a “brick wall”:
- The bricks are the cells solidly attached to one another.
- The cement is formed by lipids that allow the cells to bind to one another.
This is also the level at which protection against infection is provided: the cells release small substances that are known as antimicrobial peptides, which fight against germs. We then speak of a biological barrier.
The hydrolipid film
The epidermis is covered in a hydrolipid film, made up of water and lipids. It limits Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) and forms an antibacterial and anti-fungal barrier.
Related video: Dr Clarence de B. (dermatologist)