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Function of Skin
Acts as a barrier against microorganisms, UV radiation, chemicals, and physical injury; regulates temperature; provides sensation; offers immune defense; facilitates excretion; synthesizes vitamin D.
Synthesis of Vitamin D
The skin produces vitamin D when exposed to UVB sunlight, crucial for calcium absorption and bone health.
Thick vs Thin Skin
Thick skin, found on palms and soles, has a thicker epidermis and lacks hair follicles; thin skin covers most of the body, is more delicate, and contains hair follicles and oil glands.
Epidermis
The outermost layer of skin made of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, providing a barrier and lacking blood vessels.
Keratinization
The process where keratinocytes move from the deeper epidermis to the surface, becoming hardened and waterproof.
Types of Melanin
Eumelanin (brown/black pigment) provides more UV protection; Pheomelanin (reddish/yellow pigment) provides less UV protection.
Sweat Glands
Eccrine glands secrete watery sweat for temperature regulation; apocrine glands secrete thicker sweat activated during puberty.
Sebaceous Glands
Glands that secrete sebum to lubricate the skin and hair, found throughout the body except for palms and soles.
Arrector Pili Muscle
A small muscle attached to hair follicles that contracts in response to cold or fear, causing goosebumps.
Heat Loss Mechanisms
Radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation are methods by which the body loses heat.
Hypothalamus
The control center for body temperature, detecting changes and activating responses like sweating or shivering.
Skin Color Determinants
Skin color is determined by melanin production, genetics, sun exposure, and conditions like hyperpigmentation and jaundice.
Skin Cancer Types
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) are common, while Melanoma is the most deadly, originating from melanocytes.
Heat Exhaustion vs Heat Stroke
Heat exhaustion causes dizziness and sweating; heat stroke is more severe, with a body temp over 104°F requiring immediate treatment.
Burn Grades
First-degree burns affect only the outer skin; second-degree burns cause blisters; third-degree burns damage all layers and may need grafts.
Vitamin A
Supports skin cell turnover, reduces wrinkles, and treats acne.
Vitamin E
Acts as an antioxidant, improving moisture retention and protecting skin from free radicals.
Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant that boosts collagen production, brightens skin, and protects against UV damage.
Vitamin K
Helps with skin healing, reduces bruising, and minimizes dark circles.
Hypodermis
The deepest layer composed of fat and connective tissue, providing insulation and connecting skin to muscles and bones.
Muscle Function
The Arrector Pili Muscle contracts to create goosebumps for insulation.
Nail Color Indicators
Normal nails should be pink; blue nails indicate poor oxygenation; yellow nails are often linked to respiratory issues.
