Skin: The Largest Organ of the Body

The skin is the largest organ of the body.
The
skin and its derivatives
(hair, nails, sweat and oil glands) make up the integumentary system.
One of the main functions of the skin is protection.
It protects the
body from external factors such as bacteria, chemicals, and
temperature. The skin contains secretions that can kill bacteria and
the pigment melanin provides a chemical pigment defense against
ultraviolet light that can damage skin cells.
Another important
function of the skin is body temperature regulation.
When the skin is
exposed to a cold temperature, the blood vessels in the dermis
constrict. This allows the blood which is warm, to bypass the skin. The
skin then becomes the temperature of the cold it is exposed to.
Body
heat is conserved since the blood vessels are not diverting heat to the
skin anymore. Among its many functions the skin is an incredible organ
always protecting the body from external agents.
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