TL;DR: The skin has three main layers. The epidermis is the outermost, with keratinocytes that form the protective barrier. The dermis is the thicker middle layer containing collagen, elastin, blood vessels, and nerves. The hypodermis is the deepest layer, made of fat cells for insulation. Verdoie's Le Shroom Stack™ supports the epidermis topically and the collagen-rich dermis from within.
What is the epidermis?
The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin, the only one visible and touchable. It shields the body from pathogens, UV, and toxins, and is primarily composed of keratinocytes that produce the protein strengthening skin and maintaining elasticity.
Its sub-layers include the stratum corneum (dead cells on top defending against external threats), stratum granulosum (where keratin forms), stratum spinosum (structural integrity plus immune cells), and stratum basale (where new keratinocytes are made).
Beta-glucans (concentrated in La Crème Hydratante) stimulate keratinocytes and act as a humectant, forming a surface moisture barrier.
What is the dermis?
Beneath the epidermis, the dermis provides strength, elasticity, and structure. It contains collagen and elastic fibers, blood vessels, nerves, and hair follicles.
It has two sub-layers: the papillary layer (connective tissue) and the reticular layer (collagen fiber bundles for structural integrity).
Since natural collagen production decreases with age, collagen-supportive ingredients matter. Reishi and tremella mushrooms in Le Shroom Stack™ are concentrated for this reason, along with antioxidants that neutralize the free radicals that attack collagen fibers.
What is the hypodermis?
The hypodermis is the deepest layer, composed of adipocytes (fat cells) that store energy. It insulates, cushions, and helps maintain body temperature by preventing heat loss.
What about hair, glands, and nails?
Hair follicles distributed through the dermis produce hair that serves protective and sensory functions and helps regulate body temperature. Nails are keratinized cells that protect fingertips. Sebaceous glands produce sebum (which hydrates and protects), and sweat glands cool the body through evaporation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which skin layer does skincare actually reach?
A: Most topical skincare acts on the epidermis. Specific active ingredients (retinoids, peptides, some acids) can penetrate into the upper dermis. Anything claiming to reach the hypodermis via topical application is overstating.
Q: Why does the dermis matter for anti-aging?
A: Because collagen and elastin live there. Anti-aging skincare is largely about protecting dermal collagen (from UV, oxidation, glycation) and supporting its renewal through ingestible precursors and topical actives.
Q: Do I need different products for different layers?
A: Not separate products per layer, but effective routines address both the epidermis (barrier, hydration, texture) and the dermis (collagen support, elasticity). That's why Verdoie pairs a topical moisturizer with an ingestible supplement.
Q: Which Verdoie product works on which skin layer?
A: La Crème Hydratante targets the epidermis. Le Complément Alimentaire supports the dermis through the bloodstream.
Author: Verdoie Team
Last updated: April 2026