skin-2025-03-12T13:31:20.925Z

Skin Structure

• The skin consists of two main layers: the dermis and the epidermis.

• Epidermis:

  • Composed of stratified squamous cells.

  • These cells are dead at their ends but are alive when attached to underlying layers.

• The dermis contains supportive and connective tissues.

Functions of Skin

• The skin performs several crucial functions, including:

  • Barrier Function:

    • Protects against environmental factors like salts, oxygen, and organic waste.

    • Absorbs extra water and contributes to a chemical barrier against pathogens and harmful substances.

  • Protection Against UV Radiation:

    • The epidermis helps mitigate damage from UV radiation, which can lead to skin cancers.

  • Thermoregulation:

    • The skin helps regulate body temperature by covering and holding everything together, affecting heat retention.

Additional Considerations

• Observations on skin thickness (referencing thick and thin skins) show variances in protective layers.

• Skin can experience various sensations depending on conditions, such as the discomfort of a paper cut or the relief felt after applying alcohol to a wound.