Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

5. Integumentary System

The Dermis

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

The Dermis

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Problem L3.B5a

Textbook Question

Many antiaging skin creams contain collagen and hyaluronic acid. Manufacturers claim that the collagen and hyaluronic acid applied to the surface of the skin will be absorbed into the dermis, where they will be incorporated into dermal tissue.
What are collagen and hyaluronic acid, and what are their functions?

Verified step by step guidance

Collagen is a structural protein found in connective tissues, including the skin, tendons, and bones. It provides strength and elasticity to the skin, helping to maintain its firmness and resilience.

Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, a type of molecule that is highly effective at retaining water. It is naturally present in the skin and helps to keep it hydrated, plump, and supple by attracting and holding moisture.

Collagen functions as a key component of the extracellular matrix in the dermis, providing structural support and aiding in tissue repair. It also plays a role in maintaining the skin's elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Hyaluronic acid functions by binding to water molecules, creating a gel-like substance that fills spaces between collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis. This helps to maintain skin hydration and volume, contributing to a youthful appearance.

While collagen and hyaluronic acid are essential for skin health, their absorption through the skin's surface is limited due to the barrier function of the epidermis. Most topical products work by hydrating the outer layers of the skin rather than directly incorporating these molecules into the dermis.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Collagen

Collagen is a structural protein that forms the primary component of connective tissues in the body, including skin, tendons, and ligaments. It provides strength and elasticity, helping to maintain the skin's firmness and resilience. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin, which is why it is often included in anti-aging products.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, primarily found in connective tissues, skin, and cartilage. It is known for its remarkable ability to retain moisture, holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This property makes it essential for maintaining skin hydration, plumpness, and overall appearance, making it a popular ingredient in skincare formulations.

Dermal Absorption

Dermal absorption refers to the process by which substances applied to the skin penetrate through the epidermis and into the dermis, where they can exert their effects. Factors influencing dermal absorption include the molecular size of the substances, the formulation of the product, and the condition of the skin barrier. Understanding this concept is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of topical treatments like anti-aging creams.

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Related Practice

Multiple Choice

Which part of the integument is responsible for providing strength and flexibility?

Which of the following correctly describes the structure of the skin?

a. It consists of the superficial epidermis, middle dermis, and deep hypodermis.

b. It consists of the superficial epidermis and deep dermis.

c. It consists of the superficial dermis and deep epidermis.

d. It consists of the superficial dermis and deep hypodermis.

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Textbook Question

What are the functions of the dermal papillae?

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Textbook Question

Nguyen comes to your clinic with a mole that has recently changed in appearance. You examine the mole and note that its borders are irregular, it has a deep blue-black color, and the color is unevenly distributed throughout the mole.

Nguyen tells you that she has used a tanning booth once per week for the past several years and that the tanning salon advertises it as safe. What do you tell her about the tanning salon's claim? How does any UV exposure affect keratinocytes and melanocytes? Explain.

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Textbook Question

Would a mild second-degree burn be likely to heal by regeneration or fibrosis? Would the same type of healing take place in a third-degree burn that involved muscle tissue? Why or why not?

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Multiple Choice

Which statement is true about the dermis?

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Multiple Choice

What role do the dermal papillae play in the dermis?

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Multiple Choice

What are the two layers of the dermis?