Through which structures can substances penetrate the skin?

Substances can penetrate the skin through multiple routes including follicle walls, sebaceous glands, and intercellular spaces. The skin's structure is complex and allows for various pathways that facilitate the absorption of different substances.

Folate walls, which house hair follicles, provide a route for substances to penetrate due to their connection with the outer layer of the skin. Sebaceous glands, which are connected to hair follicles, secrete an oily substance that can help in the absorption of both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds. Intercellular spaces between skin cells also play a crucial role; these spaces allow substances to diffuse through them, particularly small molecules that can pass through cell membranes.

This multifaceted method of penetration underscores the skin's role as a barrier that can still allow selective absorption of beneficial compounds, whether they be from topical treatments or environmental factors. Understanding these pathways is essential for facial specialists as it informs how products are formulated and how they can effectively interact with the skin.