Skin Enhancement in Baton Rouge

The skin is made up of two layers, the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the upper or outer layer of the skin and the dermis is the inner or deeper layer. The epidermis is a protective layer. The lower portions of the epidermis is responsible for skin regeneration. In youth the epidermal layer is regenerated every tow to three weeks. The dermis contains hair follicles with oil glands, sweat glands, and collagen and elastic fibers.. The collagen and elastic fibers give the skin its flexibility, elasticity and resilience. Collagen makes up about 75% of the skin and gives it structural support that is characteristic of firm youthful skin.

Effects of aging

Aging decreases the thickness of both the epidermis and the dermis. The rate at which the epidermis regenerates slows down. This causes a dull appearance of the skin. Aging results in a decrease in the production of lipids and oils that seal the epidermal moisture barrier. This results in loss of water and moisture content of the skin. The skin becomes dry. Collagen production that provides strength and support of the skin also decreases with age. Elastin fiber production that gives the ability of the skin to snap back into place afer stretching also decreases. Loss of this skin support and resilience results in the formation of wrinkles and sagging of the skin.

Sun exposure

UV rays from sun exposure causes premature aging and damage of the skin. This is called photoaging. Additionally UV rays damage the pigment cells of the skin, the melanocytes, that results in uneven skin pigmentation and brown spots.