• Question: @melissa@what is skin made of???

    • Keywords:
      • Click on a keyword to find out more on the RSC site:
      Asked by Popcorn to Melissa on 24 Jun 2016.
      • Photo: Melissa Ladyman

        Melissa Ladyman answered on 24 Jun 2016:


        Skin is the biggest organ in the human body, and is made up of cells. The cells contain DNA- to tell each cell how to grow and reproduce to keep our skin working- cells also contain a chemical called melanin that helps protect it from ultra violet rays from the sun (it doesn’t give total protection though- you still need sun cream!)

        The skin has two main layers:

        Epidermis: The outer layer. It is a waterproof barrier that protects you from infection and is constantly renewed. Dead cells are rubbed off when you shower, or scratch your skin, and new ones grow underneath.

        Dermis: Layer under the skin. It contains the nerve endings that tell you when you’re touching something hot, or something sharp… This is also where the hair grows from.

        Then there’s the hypodermis which makes sure your skin is connected to the muscles underneath.

    Comments