function
Last reviewed 01/2018
The skin has multifarious functions:
- homeostasis of body fluids: keratinized epidermis prevents loss of water, macromolecules and electrolytes
- temperature homeostasis: vasodilatation of blood vessels and sweating from eccrine glands involved in heat loss; hypodermal fat acts as insulating layer
- sensation: temperature, pain, touch, proprioception, vibration are all indicated by cutaneous receptors
- lubrication: sebaceous glands
- waterproofing: sebaceous glands, layers of keratinocytes
- manipulation and improved sensation of objects: nails
- protection: from chemicals, particles, radiation, microbes, antigens via horny layer, melanocytes and antigen-presenting Langerhans cells
- ultraviolet radiation shielding: melanocytes
- shock absorption: dermis and hypodermis
- vitamin D synthesis: keratinocytes
- body odour: apocrine sweat glands
- psychosocial: apocrine sweat glands, lips, hair, nails, melanocytes and tanning