ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Epidermis (skin)

The skin is our body's clothes! Just like we wear clothes to protect us, our skin protects our body from the outside world. The outermost layer of our skin is called the epidermis. It's like a tough shell that protects our body from scratches, cuts, and other injuries.

The epidermis is made up of many tiny cells. These cells are like bricks that make up a wall. They hold hands and make a strong barrier that keeps things out. The top layer of the epidermis is made up of dead skin cells that we shed every day without even noticing. These dead cells are replaced by new ones that come up from below, like a conveyor belt.

The epidermis also contains tiny holes called pores. These pores let out sweat and oil that our body makes to help keep us cool and moisturized. Not all pores are the same, some are hair follicles too! The hair on our body starts growing deep in the skin, and it grows up to the surface through a hair follicle that's part of the epidermis.

Sometimes our epidermis gets dry or itchy. This can happen because of the weather, soap, or other things around us. So, we should take care of our skin and keep it clean and healthy! Remember to wash it with gentle soap and use sunscreen when we go out in the sun.
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