Anatomy of the skin

Skin mainly consists of three layers -

epidermis, dermis and subcutis

The epidermis is the outer part of the skin of which one of the major components is oil and water-attracting compounds.  The natural moisturinzing factors of the skin needs to be maintained, otherwise skin becomes dry and cracked.  This is why the major components of most cosmetic products are oil and water-based. 

The second layer, the dermis, is the layer which contains the collagen and elastin fibers.  It also contains blood and moisture which give the skin a healthy pinkish glow.  As we age, the collagen running parallel to the epidermis is replaced by irregular clumps and strands of elastotic tissue.  This leads to wrinkled and yellowish skin.

The third layer, the subcutis, is mostly a layer of fat which protect our body from shock and loss of heat.

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