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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more| .
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The skin has many purposes, it:
The skin is divided into two main layers. The layer nearest the surface is known as the epidermis and the layer underneath is known as the dermis.
The epidermis contains three types of cells. On the surface are flat cells, known as squamous cells. Under the layer of squamous cells are rounder cells called basal cells. In between the basal cells are the melanocytes. Melanocytes are cells that produce the pigment melanin. It is this pigment that gives skin its colour variations.
The structure of the skin
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