Functions of the Skin

Protection

Forms a water-proof layer - barrier against

invasion of microbes

chemicals

physical agents like mild trauma, UV light

dehydration

pain sensation - reflex action - withdrawal from injurious forces

Regulation of body temperature

Sweating - evaporation of sweat - heat utilized - body cooled

also by insensible water loss from deeper layers without the sweat glands being active

skin vessels may dilate and increase the skin temperature - from there heat lost by conduction, convection and radiation

Formation of vitamin D

7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin is converted into vitamin D by the UV light in the sun light.

Sensation

The skin acts as a sensory organ and transmits the sensation of touch, pressure, pain and heat to the brain.

Absorption

certain drugs and certain chemicals are absorbed through the skin

Excretion

Sodium chloride, urea, garlic and other spices (aromatic substances)