Stratum basale or Stratum germinativum: It is the deepest layer of the epidermis and contains melanocytes (cells that produce melanin). Stratum spinosum: It has 8-10 cells layers and contains the dendritic cells (a type of immune cells). Stratum granulosum: It has 3-5 cell layers and contains the glycolipids that keep the skin cells stuck. Stratum lucidum: It contains 2-3 cell layers and is only found in thick skin in the soles and palms. Stratum corneum: It is the uppermost skin layer and has 20-30 cell layers made of keratin and dead keratinocytes (cells that produce keratin).
Thin skin is found all over the body except the hands, arms, and feet. The eye area, especially the eyelids, has the thinnest skin. Now, let’s understand what thick skin is. The upper back skin is the thickest (considering the thickness of the dermis) but is considered thin skin as it has a thinner epidermis.
What Is Thick Skin?
Unlike thin skin, thick skin has all five epidermis layers and is mainly present in areas that receive the most friction, like the fingertips, palms, and soles. Thick skin is hairless and does not contain sebaceous glands and apocrine sweat glands as it opens in the hair follicle. Here is a brief overview and comparison between the structure of thin and thick skin.
Thick Skin Vs. Thin Skin
Apart from these differences, thick and thin skin have different functions. Thin skin contains:
Hair follicles connected to different glands and muscles help to regulate body temperature and repair wounds (2). Sebaceous glands produce sebum to keep the skin nourished, moisturized, and protected. Sweat glands regulate body temperature.
Thick skin:
Prevents damage to areas that are exposed to maximum friction. Has eccrine sweat glands that help regulate body temperature.
In A Nutshell
Does skin thicken with age? No, the outer layer of the skin tends to get thinner with age (3). Is thick skin genetic? Yes, thick skin could be seen in certain skin conditions that are a result of genetic mutations (4). What is the best vitamin for the skin? Vitamins D, A, C, and E are all essential for developing and maintaining a healthy skin barrier (5). Is milk good for skin? Yes, milk is rich in proteins and is known to have antibacterial and antioxidant properties that can help heal and restore your natural skin barrier (6).
