Skin Care The epidermis, our protective sheaf

The epidermis consists of a dense network of keratinocytes (80%), which acts as our skin's first line of defense. As well as protecting us, keratinocytes also produce keratin. This is a thick substance that acts as a cement, welding cells together so that they form a protective buffer. In other words, keratinocytes are our own, personal bodyguards! To remain protected to the max, our skin is renewed every 4 to 6 weeks, thanks to desquamation, AKA peeling.

Melanocytes control skin pigmentation via a process called melanogenesis. Meaning what, exactly? It's a biological reaction that produces melanin, the pigment that we're all keen to boost before soaking up some rays. Melanin gives us our gorgeous, golden glows and also protects our skin from UV rays - a sworn enemy when it comes to ageing skin. Give your melanin an extra helping hand and shield your skin from the harsh rays of the sun by using the UV Perfect Aqua Essence sunscreen by L’Oréal Paris. This non greasy sunscreen gives you 12 hours of non-stop protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Langerhans cells, although fewer in number, are instrumental in protecting our bodies against aggressive external factors. They're part of our immune system's heavy artillery! They alert our immune system to any antigen that manages to cross our skin barrier. They handcuff these intruders and march them off to the dermis, where they can be destroyed.

Finally, the surface of the epidermis is perforated with hundreds of tiny pores, through which sweat and sebum flow. Sweat and sebum form the hydrolipidic film that continuously hydrates our skin to keep it supple. No hydrolipidic layer = withered, leathery skin!