Epidermis

Description

The Epidermis is the thin outermost layer of the Skin.  It is further divided into four sub-layers.  It is the thinnest layer of the Skin (at its maximum it is 1 millimeter thick).  The Epidermis is at its thickest on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands and it is at its thinnest on the Eyelids.  The Epidermis normally regenerates itself every three to four weeks.

Amino Acids

 Hydroxyproline (applied topically) may enhance the proliferation of the cells of the Epidermis.

Carbohydrates

 Beta-Glucans (applied topically) permeate the Epidermis and may enhance the health of the Epidermis: 

 Beta 1,3 Glucan (applied topically or administered orally) may protect Langerhans Cells (specialized cells of the Immune System that are located in the Epidermis layer of the Skin) from the toxic effects of Ultra-Violet Radiation. 

 Hyaluronic Acid (especially LMW Hyaluronic Acid applied topically or consumed orally) may rejuvenate and regenerate the Epidermis: 

 Clinical studies using macrophotography and scanning electron microscopy techniques have confirmed Hyaluronic Acid’s effectiveness for regenerating the Epidermis and that it normalizes migration and cell proliferation and diminishes cell differentiation to corneocytes, leading to smoother Skin.

Cosmeceuticals

 During the first few days of topical usage, Retin-A may cause the Stratum Corneum of the Epidermis to flatten and the rest of the Epidermis to thicken (accounting for the initial plumping and smoothing of the Skin that Retin-A induces).  ^[1]

Enzymes

 Proteolytic Enzymes - Dietary (applied topically) may increase the firmness and thickness of the Epidermis.  ^[2]

Growth Factors

 Keratinocyte Growth Factor may protect Fibroblasts in the Epidermis from the damage caused by exposure to UV-B and other toxins.  ^[3]