Human Skin

What is skin? It can be defined as the membranous tissue forming the external covering of an animal consisting of the epidermis, dermis, with the hypodermis or subcutaneous layer beneath it. Skin plays an extremely important role in many of the body’s functions. For example, the skin regulates homeostatic fluid, which in turn helps maintain the body’s temperature. If the temperature were to fluctuate from the norm, adverse effects would occur, such as necrosis. Another defensive mechanism of skin is to protect against infection by serving as a barrier between the environment and the inner, more volatile cells. Excretion of salts and electrolytes is one more function of the skin, which releases excess materials from the body. In order for the skin to remain healthy, it must be kept moist and lubricated, and is done so through the secretion of oils. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, vitamin D is synthesized. This is important because it helps maintain healthy bones. The functions of the skin are numerous, diverse, and vital.