The skin is made up of 3 layers. Each layer plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin.
The bottom or deepest layer of the skin is the
hypodermis. It is made up of fatty tissue that cushions and supports the two layers of skin above it.
The middle layer of skin is called the dermis. It contains collagen and elastin which give the skin its form, shape and elasticity. The collagen and elastin in young, healthy skin are constantly renewed. That's why children's skin bounces back into shape without getting any fine lines. Older skin tends to sag and wrinkle because the collagen and elastin are damaged and not renewed as often.
The dermis is also where the blood capillaries, hair follicles, sweat and oil glands are found. As we age, oil glands become less active, causing skin to become drier and more prone to the formation of fine lines.
The top layer or epidermis, is where the critical function of cell renewal takes place.
New skin cells are born at the base of the epidermis and slowly move upward, losing moisture and flattening out as they rise until they form a paper thin barrier at the top of the epidermis. This indispensable new barrier guards against moisture loss and environmental damage. The cells in younger skin are replaced about every 15 -30 days. As we age, this process takes twice as long.
Exposure to the sun and pollution also take a toll on the skin.
Sun exposure and pollution damage the moisture barrier in the epidermis and the elastin and collagen in the dermis. This causes the skin to lose elasticity. As a result fine lines and wrinkles will form. In addition, sun exposure can cause the skin to produce excess melanin, which leads to the formation of dark spots on the skin.
A skin care routine that includes cleansing, toning and moisturising will minimize the effects of aging, sun exposure and pollution.
Cleansing with a gentle cleanser removes dirt, pollutants and excess oil from the skin while preserving the skin's critical moisture barrier. Without proper cleansing, pores will get clogged, the skin will be more prone to breakouts, and can appear dull.
Toning helps control surface oils and hydrates the skin. Toners also remove any remaining traces of dirt, makeup, or cleanser from your skin and prepare it for the third step of a daily skin care routine.
Moisturising protects the skin from environmental stressors. Moisturiser protects your skin's natural moisture barrier, which holds moisture in your skin and keeps it soft and supple.
ARTISTRY™ moisturisers also contain a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects your skin against incidental UVA & UVB radiation which can cause premature aging of skin.
