The
skin, the largest organ in the body, has a wide variety of functions required
for maintenance of body homeostasis.The epidermis and dermis each have their own distinct functions as well
as common functions, all of which are necessary for survival.
Skin
Functions
Epidermis:
Protection
from desiccation
Protection
from bacterial entry
Protection
from toxins
Fluid
balance: avoiding excess evaporation loss
Neurosensory
Social
interactive
Dermis:
Protection
from trauma due to the dermal properties
of elasticity and durability
Fluid balance
through regulation of skin blood flow
Thermoregulation
through control of skin blood flow
Growth
factors and contact direction for
epidermal replication and dermal repair
