Structure of Epidermis

The epidermis is formed of non-vascular stratified epithelium. Its usual thickness is between 0.07 mm and 0.12 mm. But in certain parts, like the soles of the feet and the palms of the hand, it is very thick, ranging from 0.8 mm to 1.4 mm.

Squamous epithelium is ten to twelve cells thick in the palms and soles and 3 to 4 cells over the eyelids and forearms. As viewed in three-dimensional manner, the downward projections of epidermis are now referred to as rete ridges and not rete pegs. They are actually ridges of dermis.

The epidermis is mainly divisible into two main systems, viz. keratinising or malpighian system (keratinocytes) which forms the bulk and the pigmentary system (melanocytes) which produces the pigment. Melanin is transferred to the keratinocytes through the dendrites of melanocytes (cytocrine secretion).

In addition to four types of cells viz., keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cell, and indeterminate cell in the epidermis, another unique cell known as Merkel cell (or Haascheiben) or touch cells are found at the base of epidermal rete ridges which are in contact with nerve fibrils.

They are mostly present in palms, soles, nail beds, oral and genital epithelium, and act as slow touch receptors. Merkel cell trabecular carcinoma has been reported recently.

Structure of Epidermis
Structure of Dermis
Sebaceous Glands
Sweat Glands

Caring for the Skin

• Hormones and their Effect on the Skin
• Caring for the Skin by Electric Therapy
• Light therapy
• Quick Home Facial
• Skin Care by Reflex therapy
• Skin Surgery
• Baby's Skin Care
• Oils and Your Skin

Healthy Skin