Dermis
Fibroblast cells are the only active skin cells found in the dermis; they could be described as fibre producing factories. Other cells in this layer include nerves, blood vessels and blood cells.
Fibroblasts manufacture two essential proteins:
Collagen, which is composed of complex fibres made up of protein arranged in long chains. Vitamin C is essential for the production of healthy collagen, which is important to the tone and structure of the skin. If the fibroblast cells are damaged by UV irradiation or free radical activity, they will produce defective collagen.
Elastin, which is composed of a highly resilient material. Elastin fibres are much thinner than collagen fibres, and provide elasticity to the skin. Once the fibroblast cells are damaged, they start producing defective elastin and skin will sag from a loss of elasticity. Elastin is also susceptible to UV damage.
We see evidence of the destruction of collagen and elastin as deep wrinkles, lax and leathery skin.
Subcutaneous Tissue
The subcutaneous tissue is a layer of fat and connective tissue that houses larger blood vessels and nerves. This layer is vital to body temperature regulation.
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