The skin is the largest organ of the body. Did you know that skin actually breathes and is home to billions of bacteria? Skin also contains enzymes that help break down and eliminate dead skin cells. Most importantly, the skin acts as the first level of defense for the body, protecting our flesh and organs.

The body uses a series of layers to build skin, with the top layer being fully developed skin cells called the epidermis. All of these cells begin at the basal level, where they form keratinocytes out of fat and keratins which are proteins. These new epidermal skin cells rise, replacing older dead and dying cells. Below the basal level is the dermis, home to sweat glands and hair follicles. This layer also contains the vitally important blood vessels that transport nutrients, lipids, moisture and oxygen needed to keep skin healthy.

As we age, skin cells divide more slowly, and the inner skin (or dermis), starts to thin. Fat cells beneath the dermis begin to atrophy, and the underlying network of elastin and collagen fibers loosen and ravel. Since they provide "scaffolding" for the surface layers, skin begins to visibly lose its elasticity. When pressed, it no longer springs back.

The skin's ability to retain moisture also decreases as the sweat and oil-secreting glands become less productive. Skin becomes drier and is slower in repairing itself.

Facial expressions–or dynamic motion–also cause permanent creases over time. Frown lines (those between the eyebrows) and crow's feet (lines that radiate from the corners of the eyes) develop because of repeated small muscle contractions and habitual facial expressions form characteristic lines.