ECZEMA RESOURCE CENTRE

STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OF SKIN

The skin is the largest organ in the body, making up about one-sixths of total body weight.  The functions of our skin go well beyond being a mere cosmetic covering of our bodies.  It can be credited for the following functions as well:

Temperature Regulation

Our skin reacts to the external temperature by either raising goose bumps, or causing us to sweat.  It does this to try to maintain our body temperature at just the right level (unlike our cold blooded cousins), and it does so without our voluntary input.

Protection

As the external covering of our bodies, it protects us in more ways than we can imagine.  It makes us pretty much water proof, so that we don't swell up every time we come into contact with water.  It prevents water from our bodies from evaporating uncontrollably, preventing us from drying up on a hot day.  There is the physical protection from injury, as well as protection from ultraviolet radiation and bacteria.

Making Vitamin D

Our skin makes Vitamin D when it comes into contact with ultraviolet rays from the sun.  Vitamin D is a vital for normal growth and functioning of the body.

Interacting With The Environment

Our skin contains millions of nerve receptors which sense touch, pain and temperature.  It is these nerves that enable us to feel and respond to our environment.  For instance, pain receptors when stimulated by a painful stimuli (such as a sharp object), causes a reflex withdrawal of the limb, thus serving to protect it from further injury.

Fat Stores

There is a layer of fat under the skin, which whilst unsightly, serve several important functions.  This layer of fat serves to insulate our bodies from heat loss.  It also serves as a store of reserve calories, which can be drawn on during times of starvation.

Physical Appearance

The condition and appearance of our skin, is often a reflection of our general health and well-being.  There are thriving industries which support the millions who seek to have better looking skin.  The decoration of skin with tattoos, paints and jewelery can be important in different societies and cultures. 

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