Skin is the outer covering of the body that protects it from injury and helps regulate body temperature.
It has a complex anatomy that includes the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layers. The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin and forms a protective barrier against bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders. It consists of several layers including the stratum corneum which is made up of dead skin cells that shed every 28 days to make way for new ones. This layer also contains melanin which provides protection from UV rays.
The dermis lies beneath the epidermis and provides structure for the skin with its network of fibers like collagen and elastin which give it strength, elasticity, and flexibility. This layer houses sweat glands that help regulate body temperature as well as hair follicles which produce hairs on our head and body. In addition to this there are oil glands in this layer that keep our skin moisturized while providing an antimicrobial environment by secreting sebum into our pores.
The deepest part of the skin is called the subcutaneous fatty tissue or adipose layer; this helps insulate us by keeping us warm when its cold outside but can also be dangerous if too much fat accumulates in certain areas leading to health issues such as diabetes or heart disease if left unchecked over time. Additionally there are nerve endings found within this layer allowing us to sense touch along with pain so we know when something isnt quite right with our bodies or surroundings at any given moment in time throughout life’s journey!
Interesting Facts about the Skin:
The epidermis is made up of several layers that are constantly shedding old cells and replacing them with new ones every 28 days.
The dermis provides structure to the skin by housing sweat glands, hair follicles, and oil glands to keep our skin moisturized and protected from microbes.
The subcutaneous fatty tissue or adipose layer insulates us from cold temperatures while providing nerve endings so we can sense touch and pain.