It is not widely known, but the skin is a multifunctional organ.
- More than just an envelope, the skin is an organ in its own right with a surface area of almost 2m² from head to toe and a weight of 4kg in adults.
- The skin is made up of three closely connected layers, which are the epidermis, the dermis and the hypodermis.
- The skin is responsible for 7 very specific functions in our body.
Although it is often put to the test by the sun, pollution and illnesses, the skin performs many essential tasks for our body on a daily basis.
“The skin is an organ in its own right”
“More than just an envelope, the skin is an organ in its own right with a surface area of almost 2m² from head to toe and a weight of 4 kilos in adults”noted the National Union of Dermatologists-Venereologists (SNDV) in a press release. “On a daily basis, the skin is a real interface with the outside world and it plays several fundamental roles for health and well-being”, experts continue.
So here are the 7 main functions of the skin.
1/ A skin barrier function
It protects the body against environmental aggressions such as cold, heat, dehydration, radiation and even atmospheric pollution.
2/ An immune defense function
It is our body’s first line of defense against external aggressions, such as microbes, viruses and allergens. It fights against their harmful effects and thus protects other organs.
3/ A thermal regulation function
When the body temperature rises, the sweat glands ensure the cooling of the body. When the temperature drops, the cutaneous vascular system that runs through the body acts as a regulator by increasing blood flow and releasing heat.
4/ A hormonal synthesis function
Fat cells in the hypodermis serve as important nutrient storage units by synthesizing vitamin D and other hormones. When the body needs them, they pass into the surrounding blood vessels and are transported to where they need to act.
5/ A sensation control function
It has specific receptors that make it sensitive to pressure, vibrations, touch, pain and temperature. It thus plays a role in perception and warning of danger.
6/ A function of reflecting physical and mental health
The appearance of the skin can help detect certain skin disorders such as stress, malnutrition or internal diseases. The visible signs can then give the alert.
7/ A psychosocial function
It is the first representation of self-image through its color, texture and quality. It therefore has a fundamental social role.
The skin is made up of three superimposed layers
The skin is made up of three closely connected layers, which are the epidermis, the dermis and the hypodermis.
