For some it is only the boundary organ of our body, for others it is the mirror of the soul. In any case, it is the skin that makes us truly visible and gives expression to our individuality. Reason enough to take a closer look at this functionally versatile organ and to understand its structure.

From the "mother soil", horny cells are formed, which are initially still metabolically active, but become increasingly keratinized on their way to the surface, to finally form the "roof" of our body as keratin flakes. The dead skin flakes of the epidermis are held together by a kind of fatty cement (made of horny layer lipids). This cement substance is formed by the still living horny cells. We can therefore say that the more metabolically active cells there are in the epidermis, the better this is for its function as a natural protective barrier. The more dead horny material, the less the epidermis can take care of itself - and the more unattractive, coarse, grey and old the visible skin structure appears.

Whether the skin appears fine-pored and well moisturised, whether vessels shimmer through or not, whether a natural glow conjures up youthfulness in the face and an even colouring - that is decided by the quality of the epidermis.

The epidermal "mother soil" (basal membrane) is interlocked with the dermis via cones. The more firmly the epidermis and dermis are connected, the better. The dermis houses fine blood vessels, hair roots with sebaceous glands, sweat glands, nerves and connective tissue. It is the cushion on which the epidermis lies. The better the dermis or connective tissue is structured, the tighter and firmer our skin appears.

The natural ageing process, but also external factors such as UV light, pollutants (e.g. nicotine) or certain medicines, lead to a breakdown of the connective tissue cushion. The consequences are clearly visible on the surface: deep wrinkles, loss of contour and an overall tired appearance.