What are the different parts and the function of skin? Find out here!
FUNCTION OF SKIN – The skin is the largest organ of the body and it covers our body entirely. It has four main functions and here are they.
The largest organ of the body is composed of water, protein, lipids, and different minerals and chemicals. Skin alone can weigh about six pounds and among its importance is that it protects us from infections and germs.
Throughout our lives, this organ will change. How can you keep this healthy? Among the beauty tips to take care of your skin include a thorough cleaning, using a gentle soap, eating balanced nutrition, regular moisturizing, and using sunscreen.
In order to understand more about our skin, check out below its parts and layers and the main functions of the skin.
It has three basic parts or layers: epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat layer.
- Dermis is the outer layer of the skin that is thin. It is composed of three types of cells: Squamous cells, Basal cells, and Melanocytes.
- Epidermis is the middle layer containing blood vessels, lymph vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, collagen bundles, fibroblasts, nerves, sebaceous glands, and pain and touch receptors.
- The subcutaneous fat layer is the deepest layer of the skin that holds a network of collagen and fat cells. It gives the body protection by serving as a shock absorber.
These are the main functions of the skin:
- It serves as protection. The skin protects us by being the barrier that withstands any pressure, stress, or trauma. It also retains body fluids and moisture and prevents us from absorbing external fluids. We can swim, bathe, and even walk in the rain safely because of this organ. We are also protected from the ultraviolet light (UV light) of the sun and infections from organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- To regulate body temperature. This is through producing sweat and dilating blood vessels. The subcutaneous fat layer prevents heat loss, acts as an insulation barrier, and reduces the effects of cold temperatures.
- To detect sensation. These sensations are heat, cold, pressure, contact, and pain and this is in the dermis.
- For the endocrine function. Cholecalciferol (D3) is produced in the two lowermost layers of the epidermis and this is what makes the skin a great source of Vitamin D.
Several conditions and problems can occur and these include allergies, blisters, bug bites, skin cancer, skin infections, rashes, acne, eczema, lesions, wounds, and burns.
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