Skin

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Skin

Skin (pronunciation: /skɪn/), from the Old Norse skinn, meaning "animal hide", is the largest organ of the human body. It forms the body's outer covering, protecting it from environmental factors such as pathogens and harsh weather conditions.

Structure

The skin is composed of three primary layers: the epidermis, the outermost layer that provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone; the dermis, beneath the epidermis, which contains tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands; and the deeper subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis), which is made of fat and connective tissue.

Functions

The skin has multiple roles in the body. It acts as a barrier, regulates body temperature, controls fluid and electrolyte balance, and functions in immune defense. It also enables sensations of touch, heat, and cold.

Related Terms

  • Dermatology: The branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases.
  • Epidermis: The outermost layer of the skin.
  • Dermis: The layer of skin beneath the epidermis.
  • Hypodermis: The deepest layer of the skin.
  • Melanin: The pigment that gives human skin, hair, and eyes their color.
  • Keratin: A type of protein that makes up the skin, hair, and nails.
  • Sebaceous glands: Small glands in the skin which secrete a lubricating oily matter (sebum) into the hair follicles to lubricate the skin and hair.

External links

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