The true skin, also known as the dermis, is the thickest layer of your skin. It's located beneath the epidermis (the outermost layer) and is responsible for giving your skin its tone and undertones. It's sometimes called "real skin" to distinguish it from the epidermis.
Understanding the Dermis: Your True Skin
The dermis is crucial for skin health and function. It contains:
- Collagen and Elastin: These proteins provide structure and elasticity, keeping your skin firm and youthful.
- Blood Vessels: These supply nutrients and oxygen to the skin.
- Nerve Endings: These allow you to feel sensations like touch, temperature, and pain.
- Hair Follicles and Sweat Glands: These structures are embedded within the dermis.
Think of the epidermis as a protective shield, while the dermis is the supportive, living layer underneath. The dermis is what gives your skin its strength and resilience. Damage to the dermis can lead to scarring and other skin problems. The dermis is the true skin – the layer providing structure, function, and the characteristics we associate with our skin's appearance.