The Skin Research Paper

The skin is the largest organ in the human body (ROSS AND WILSON BOOK) It has many essential functions that, if operate properly, are part of maintaining good health and wellbeing. The structure of the skin is important in ensuring these functions can be performed. The skin provides a reasonably waterproof layer for the body and offers protection as a main function, as well as other key functions including thermoregulation and sensation. Other functions of the skin involve absorption and secretion of fluids and substances, and synthesis of vitamin D. This essay will outline the structure of the skin and describe in detail the skins functions while also highlighting their importance and how structure and function are linked. The skin has microbiota
These layers help the skin to execute its many functions. The epidermis is made of stratified keratinised squamous epithelium which offers a waterproof defence for the skin. The epidermis has several layers within it and provides the most protection from external elements, and is also the site of skin cell production as the top cells are constantly rubbed off and replaced. The dermis is the second layer of the skin and is tough and elastic due to the collagen and elastin fibres it contains. The subcutaneous tissue is the layer beneath the epidermis and dermis which provides insulation as it is comprised of fat tissue. As well as insulating, the subcutaneous tissue acts as a shock absorber and an energy store for the
A constant temperature is vital for cellular enzymes within the body to be able to operate properly. This negative feedback system is controlled by the hypothalamus which sends signals to the skin to make changes in response to the temperature. When the body temperature falls the blood vessels in the dermis constrict which decreases the blood flow to the surface of the skin. The skin also has hairs that grow through it from hair follicles which grow through the epidermis and other layers of the skin. When the body temperature drops, the arrector pili muscle attached to the hair follicles contract and the hairs stand up causing “goose bumps” this allows for air to be trapped amongst the erect hairs and creates some insulation. Alternatively, when the body temperature rises above normal, the arterioles in the skin dermis are dilated which allows the body to lose more heat through an increase of blood flow. The skin has sweat ducts and glands which pass through it to allow the body to cool down as a result of a rise in temperature or during physical exercise. The negative feedback system is switched off when the core body temperature goes back to the normal range of 37