The 10 functions of the skin are protection, temperature regulation, sensation, absorption, excretion, secretion, metabolism, immunological defense against pathogens, repair and replacement of cells and vitamin D synthesis.
This is more than just the outer covering of our bodies. It’s a living, breathing organ that serves many important roles and keeps us safe from harm.
Protection: The skin acts as an armor against pathogens like bacteria, viruses or fungi that can cause infection and illness if they get inside our bodies. It also helps to protect us from physical injuries by acting as a barrier between us and whatever might harm us on the outside world. Temperature Regulation: Our skin plays an important role in regulating body temperature by releasing sweat to cool down when we are hot or shivering when we are cold. This helps to maintain our internal core temperature so that we don’t overheat or become too cold for our cells to function properly. Sensation: Our skin contains millions of nerve endings which pick up information about whats going on around us such as heat, pressure and pain so that it can be sent back to the brain for processing. This allows us to interact with our environment safely – knowing whether something is hot enough to burn or soft enough not to hurt ourselves upon contact.
Absorption & Excretion: The skin absorbs some molecules through its surface layers such as water-soluble vitamins like vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid) and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A (retinol). It also excretes waste products, toxins and other materials out of the body through sweating which is known as cutaneous respiration one way in which waste leaves the body without having any direct contact with organs like lungs or kidneys.
Secretion & Metabolism: Not only does it absorb substances but it secretes things too including oils called sebum which keep your hair shiny and moisturize your scalp while helping fight off microbes at the same time! Additionally, metabolic processes take place within its cells where proteins are formed into enzymes ready for use elsewhere in the body during chemical reactions taking place all throughout your system! Immunological Defense Against Pathogens :The immune system works hard day-and-night keeping you healthy but did you know part of this process takes places right here at home? Thats right your own personal defense force fighting off germs before they even enter your bloodstream thanks partly due its protective mantle made up of antimicrobial peptides found along all surfaces exposed directly external environments such asthe face , hands etc . These small soldiers hold their position stopping bad guys dead before they have chance reach vital organs beneath !
Repair & Replacement Of Cells : Over time , damages may occur on deeper layers caused either externally (such sunburn ) internally (aging related changes ) . Fortunately , complex cascade mechanisms exist enable efficient repair replacement damaged areas . Through means cellular division differentiation multiple layers will restore themselves normal status given enough time under correct conditions . Finally Vitamin D Synthesis : Yes believe it not , sunlight isnt just good morale boosting exercise ! UVB radiation triggers conversion precursor molecule 7 dehydrocholesterol cholesterol calciferol aka Vitamin D itself essential bone growth proper functioning neurological systems amongst numerous others benefits associated optimal levels nutrient !
The skin acts as an armor against pathogens and harmful substances.
It helps to regulate body temperature by releasing sweat or shivering when we are cold.
It contains millions of nerve endings which pick up pressure, heat, and pain information from the environment.
