Before choosing products, comparing ingredients or building routines, there is one thing every skincare journey should start with: understanding the skin itself.

When you know how your skin functions, everything suddenly becomes clearer: why certain products work, why others don’t, and what your skin actually needs to stay healthy.

Here is a science-backed look at how your skin truly works.

The Three Layers of the Skin

The Epidermis

Your Protective Shield

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and acts as your body’s first line of defense. It prevents moisture from escaping while keeping irritants and pollutants out. Within the epidermis lies the stratum corneum, the part of the skin we often refer to as the “skin barrier.” When this barrier is healthy, your skin feels smooth, calm and hydrated. When it becomes compromised, sensitivity, dryness and irritation appear quickly. This is the layer where most skincare products interact first, which is why barrier support is so essential.

The Dermis

Structure, Strength and Glow

Beneath the epidermis sits the dermis: a thicker layer that gives your skin its firmness and elasticity. This is where collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid live, as well as blood vessels that supply nutrients. Many targeted skincare ingredients such as retinoids, vitamin C and certain peptides are designed to reach or influence this layer, because this is where the visible signs of aging develop over time.

The Subcutaneous Layer

Cushion and Protection

The deepest layer, sometimes called the hypodermis, is composed mainly of fat and connective tissue. It cushions the body, provides insulation and anchors the skin in place. Skincare products typically do not reach this layer, but it plays an essential role in maintaining a smooth, plump appearance.

The Skin Barrier: Your Personal Bodyguard

Your skin barrier functions like a carefully arranged structure of cells and lipids that lock hydration in and keep harmful elements out. When this structure is balanced, skin feels soft and resilient. When it becomes weakened, through over-exfoliation, harsh products or environmental stress the skin struggles to hold moisture, and reactions such as redness, stinging and breakouts become more common.

A healthy skincare routine always begins with protecting and nurturing this barrier.

How the Skin Renews Itself

Your skin naturally renews itself in a cycle that typically takes between four and six weeks. New cells form in the lower layers of the epidermis and slowly rise to the surface before shedding away. This renewal process keeps the skin smooth and luminous. Gentle exfoliation, retinoids and certain acids can support this cycle, but balance is key, too much stimulation disrupts the barrier rather than enhancing it.

How Your Skin Protects You

Every day, your skin shields you from sunlight, pollution, temperature changes, microbes and water loss. This protection comes from melanin, natural antioxidants, the microbiome and the moisture barrier itself. Sunscreen is one of the most important tools you have to support this natural defense system. It reduces long-term damage, helps prevent hyperpigmentation and plays a critical role in slowing visible aging.

Why Understanding Your Skin Matters

When you understand how your skin truly works, you begin to see skincare differently. You recognise why hydration is essential, why barrier support comes first, why not every product needs to penetrate deeply and why sunscreen is non-negotiable. This knowledge allows you to build routines that are calmer, simpler and far more effective.

It becomes much easier to choose what your skin actually needs and to let go of what it doesn’t.

Your skin is intelligent, adaptable and beautifully complex. It protects you tirelessly, and skincare should support that process with intention and softness.
By understanding your skin’s structure, rhythm and needs, you gain a clear foundation for everything that comes next, ingredients, routines and long-term skin health.