Like an onion, the skin has many different layers. When it comes to infection, the deeper it is, the more dangerous it is. The first layer of skin is the epidermis, which gives the skin its cells and color. The second layer is the dermis, which produces oils to protect the skin and sweat to cool it. It also has nerves that help you feel heat, cold, and pain. The third layer is the subcutaneous fat, which attaches the skin to muscles and bones and helps control body temperature.