Skin Structure
1. Epidermis: The outermost layer composed mainly of dead cells
called keratinocytes. It provides a waterproof barrier and creates
our skin tone.
2. Dermis: Beneath the epidermis, it contains tough connective
tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands. Blood vessels, nerve
endings, and lymphatic vessels are also found here.
3. Subcutaneous Tissue (Hypodermis): This layer contains fat and
connective tissue. It acts as insulation and padding for the body.
Temperature Control by Skin:
1. Overheating (Thermoregulation):
● Sweating: Sweat glands produce sweat, which evaporates
and cools the skin.
● Vasodilation: Blood vessels near the skin surface widen,
allowing more blood to flow near the skin's surface,
releasing heat.
● Behavioral Changes: Seeking shade, removing excess
clothing, and hydration can help regulate body
temperature.
2. Overcooling (Conservation of Heat):
● Vasoconstriction: Blood vessels near the skin's surface
constrict, reducing blood flow to the skin and conserving
heat.
● Shivering: Muscles contract rapidly, generating heat
through metabolic activity.
● Behavioral Changes: Adding layers of clothing, seeking
warmth, and consuming warm beverages can help
maintain body temperature.
Vasodilation and Vasoconstriction:
1. Vasodilation:
● Step 1: When the body needs to release excess heat, the
hypothalamus in the brain sends signals to blood vessels
in the skin.
● Step 2: These signals cause the smooth muscle
surrounding the blood vessels to relax.
● Step 3: Relaxation of the smooth muscle allows the blood
vessels to widen, increasing blood flow to the skin's
surface.
● Step 4: More blood near the surface facilitates heat
exchange with the environment, promoting cooling.
● Step 5: This process is crucial for regulating body
temperature during exercise or exposure to high
temperatures.
2. Vasoconstriction:
● Step 1: In response to cold temperatures or the need to
conserve heat, the hypothalamus signals blood vessels in
the skin.
● Step 2: The smooth muscle surrounding these blood
vessels contracts.
● Step 3: Constriction of the blood vessels reduces blood
flow near the skin's surface.
● Step 4: By minimizing blood flow to the skin, less heat is
lost to the environment, helping to maintain core body
temperature.
● Step 5: Vasoconstriction is crucial for preventing
hypothermia and conserving energy in cold conditions.
