The skin is the largest of all the body's organs. It covers an area of about one-and-a-half square metres. It is a complex organ. Every square centimetre contains 3 million cells, 100 sweat glands and 12 nerves,

There are five layers of skin. The Hypodermis is the thickest and deepest part of the skin. Above this is the Dermis. This lay determines the skin's elasticity and firmness. The Epidermis is next. This layer is made up of cells which are constantly being renewed. This layer is critical to the skin's healthy appearance. The Horny layer is made up of dead skin cells and acts as a shield to protect the skin. Finally, at the surface, is the Hydrolipidic film which, made up of oil and water, maintains the skin's moisture.

The skin fulfils a number of roles. It maintains the body's temperature by transporting blood around the body and by sweat. Obviously, it is also a protective barrier for the body from external threats. Part of this role is due to its ability to act as a sensory organ (heat, cold, pain etc). The skin also stores energy for the body.

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