SKIN
The skin, also known as the integumentary system, is the largest
organ in the human body.
It provides a vital barrier between our internal organs and the external
environment.
1. Structure of the Skin Anatomy
The skin is composed of two main layers, with a third layer underneath:
• Epidermis: The outer layer made of stratified squamous epithelium.
◦ It has no blood vessels or nerves.
◦ The surface consists of dead cells filled with keratin, a waterproof
protein.
◦ The skin surface is replaced entirely about every month as new cells
from the deep germinative layer push upward.
• Dermis: The inner, tougher layer made of connective tissue.
◦ It contains blood vessels, lymph vessels, and sensory nerves.
◦ It also has hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous (oil) glands.
• Subcutaneous Layer: Located under the dermis, it contains adipose
(fat) tissue and areolar tissue that anchors the skin to underlying
structures.
2. Main Functions of the Skin
The skin system is essential for survival due to several key roles:
• Protection: It is a waterproof barrier that protects against microbial
invasion, chemical damage, and dehydration.
• Regulation of Body Temperature: The skin helps maintain a steady
temperature of about 36.8°C.
◦ When the body is too hot, blood vessels dilate (widen) and sweat
glands produce fluid that cools the skin as it evaporates.
◦ When cold, blood vessels constrict (narrow) to keep heat inside the
body.
• Sensation: Specialised nerve endings (receptors) detect touch,
pressure, temperature, and pain, sending this info to the brain.
• Formation of Vitamin D: A substance in the skin is converted into
Vitamin D when exposed to the ultraviolet rays in sunlight.
• Excretion: The skin is a minor excretory organ, getting rid of water,
sodium chloride, and small amounts of urea through sweat.
3. Accessory Structures
• Glands: Sebaceous glands secrete an oily substance called sebum,
which keeps skin and hair soft and kills some bacteria. Sweat glands are
found all over the body to aid cooling.
• Hair: Grows from follicles in the dermis; arrector pili muscles can
make hair stand up ("goosebumps") to trap heat.
• Nails: Hardened keratin plates that protect the tips of fingers and toes.
4. Wound Healing
• Primary Healing: Occurs when a clean wound has edges that are close
together (like a surgical cut). A small blood clot forms, and new cells
quickly close the gap.
• Secondary Healing: Occurs when there is a large gap or extensive
tissue loss. The body must fill the area with granulation tissue (new
capillaries and cells) before a scar can form.