Some of the most important skin functions are listed below(2017a).
- Protects from mechanical damage, elastin allows skin reformation after deformation, subcutaneous fat allows to absorb shock.
- Because skin is a poor conductor of heat it protects against heat damage to internal organs and help to regulate temperature.
- First line of defense against microbes. Skin protects against all microbes. Sebum protects against overgrowth of bacteria.
- Keratinocytes protect against chemicals.
- Superficial layers of epidermis and presence of hair protects the dividing basal cells in the stratum basale.
- Helps to regulate skin temperature by sweat glands and in permeation by absorbing water in sebum.
- Helps to excrete waste products and salt in sweat.
- Helps in synthesizing Vit D and other structural proteins used immediately after injury or regular repair of skin.
- Acts as a sensory organ for temperature, pain, touch, vibration and pruritus.
- Helps to protect against sun by increasing or decreasing melanin pigment.
References:
2017a. Functions of the skin CME | DermNet New Zealand. Available at: https://www.dermnetnz.org/cme/principles/functions-of-the-skin/.
