The word “epidermis” comes from the combination of the Ancient Greek prefix epi-, meaning “outer”, and derma, meaning “skin”. It therefore means “outer skin”. The epidermis is the outermost of the layers that make up the skin. It protects the body from external factors, forms a barrier against infectious pathogens, and prevents water loss from the epidermis – in other words, it maintains the skin's moisture and heat balance. The epidermis also contains cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment ‘melanin’ that gives skin its colour.
Epidermal thickness varies across different areas of the body, and also varies with age and sex. In general, the epidermis is about the thickness of a sheet of paper. On the soles and palms it is as thick as two credit cards. The skin around the eyes, by contrast, is very thin – you can imagine it as being about the thickness of a sheet of photocopy paper.
The epidermis is made up of cells called keratinocytes. These cells divide and multiply over a short period, meaning this layer, which protects the skin from external factors, is constantly renewed. This cycle takes an average of one month.
What can be done for epidermal health?
Drinking plenty of water, eating foods rich in antioxidants and building a good skin care routine should be the priorities. You can get help from professionals when building your skin care routine.
Use a gentle cleanser in the bath and avoid excessive scrubbing or exfoliation. We also recommend avoiding very hot water in the bath and not making baths too long. The skin should be supported with moisturisers after bathing.
Don't forget to apply a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 regularly.