Skin and the skin functions

Since all dermatology conditions are associated with physical changes of the skin, it is important to understand the basic skin anatomy and functions, as well as some terminology that will be used throughout this paper.
Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and serves as a barrier between the internal organs and the external environment. The main function of the skin is to protect the underlying tissues from mechanical trauma and to protect from excessive loss of water. In addition, the skin aids in excretion and heat regulation.
The skin is divided into three distinct layers. From the inside out, there are the subcutaneous tissues, the dermis, and the epidermis as shown in the table below (Hall, 1999).




Layers of the Skin Sub-layers  Functions
Epidermis  Cornified layer (dead end-product)
  • Protection from external environment and vitamin D synthesis

-Contains two main types of cells: 

  • Melanocytes (produce melanin)
  • Keratinocytes (keratin forming cells)
Granular layer
Spinous Layer
Basal layer
Dermis  Papillary layer
  • The principal mass of the skin which gives the skin substance and provide support
  • Contains blood vessels and nerves, collagen, elastin, fibers/bundles, hair follicles, and sebaceous and sweat glands 
Reticular layer
Subcutaneous Tissues
  • Attaches the skin to underlying muscle and bones
  • Supports the blood vessels, and nerves and skin
  • Nourishes, insulates, and cushions the skin
  • Storage of fat


Layers and the function of the skin
Appendages of the skin include the cornified appendages (hair and nails) and the glandular appendages (sebaceous, apocrine, and eccrine or sweat glands) (Hall, 1999). These appendages receive nutrience from the dermis and are anatomically located in both epidermal and dermal layers.
Sebaceous glands secrete sebum and lipids, which lubricate the skin’s surface. They are largest in size and most numerous in numbers on the face, scalp, upper chest, and back. Apocrine gland secretions (which occur in the axillae, breasts, eyelids, etc.) have unknown function; however, they may act as pheromones. They are responsible for the production of body odour (Hall, 1999). Finally, sweat glands are distributed everywhere on the surface of the skin. Their main function is to excrete waste products, to moisturize the skin, and to regulate body temperature.
Skin cross section
References:
Hall C. J., (1999). Sauer’s Manual of Skin Diseases. (8th.ed.). USA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

Published by admin on May 22nd, 2007 tagged Aging, Drugs, Fitness, Food, Natural Health, News, Pictures, Recipes, Skin


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