Structure and function of aging skin

Abstract

Numerous changes occur in our bodies as we age. Our skin is no exception. There are both natural and environmental factors that will shape aging human skin. Cell replacement, barrier function, chemical clearance, mechanical protection, immune responsiveness, wound healing, thermoregulation, DNA repair, sweat and sebum production, and vitamin D production are intrinsic alterations in the aging process (see Table 2.1). Exposure to the sun will also cause an array of changes in our skin.It is important to know the basic structure and function of aging skin in order to better understand the processes that will occur in our skin as our bodies develop. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2008.