Skin Structure and Growth

Flashcards covering key concepts about skin structure and growth, suitable for studying.

What are the three major layers of the skin?

Epidermis, Dermis, Subcutaneous (hypodermis)

What is the primary function of melanin?

Melanin affects skin pigment and protects against UV radiation.

Define sebaceous glands.

These glands secrete oily substances (sebum) that lubricate the skin and hair.

What is the stratum corneum?

The outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead, flattened skin cells.

What does the dermis contain?

It contains connective tissue, blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and glands.

Identify one function of collagen.

Collagen provides structural support to the skin and helps maintain its firmness.

What are the sudoriferous glands responsible for?

They are responsible for producing sweat to regulate body temperature.

Name the two major layers of the dermis.

The papillary layer and the reticular layer.

What is the immune response of the skin?

The skin reacts quickly to organisms that touch or try to enter it to prevent infection.

What is the unique characteristic of stratum lucidum?

It is a clear, translucent layer found only in thick skin areas like palms and soles.

Explain the role of the arrector pili muscles.

They are small muscles that cause hair follicles to stand upright, resulting in goosebumps.

What is the function of dermal papillae?

They contain capillaries, and sensory receptors, and help anchor the epidermis to the dermis.

What is the main function of the subcutaneous layer?

It provides cushioning, energy storage, and thermal insulation to the skin.

Describe the texture of healthy skin.

Healthy skin has a smooth, fine-grained texture and appears moist.

What happens during skin cell shedding?

Dead skin cells from the outer layer are replaced by new cells rising from the epidermis.