1. Layers of the skin and function of the skin.

a) Layers of the skin

Epidermis
It is the top layer of the skin and is the only layer that is visible to the eyes. It constantly
shed dead skin cells from the top layer and replacing them with new healthy cells that grow
in lower layers. These cells are; keratinocytes which produce fibrous protein keratin,
melanocytes which produce dark pigment known as melanin, langerhan’s cell which is
responsible for epidermal macrophages defense mechanism, merkel cells which are touch
receptors associated with sensory nerve endings. It gets nutrient and oxygen from
capillaries in the dermis.
Epidermis consist of five layers;
i. Stratum germinativum
It’s the layer attached to the dermis whereby it forms a strong layer between dermis
and epidermis. It consist of a single row of keratinocytes.
ii. Stratum spinosum
It is produced by division of basal layer and has many layers of keratinocytes. The
cells in this continue dividing hence making epidermis strong.
iii. Stratum Granulosum
There is no cell division in this layer. It contains keratin which is a fibrous protein
which makes the hair and nails.
iv. Stratum Lucidum
It is a thin transparent superficial layer found only in the thick skin. The cells in this
layer are flat, dense and filled with keratin.
v. Stratum Corneum
Is the layer exposed to the skin surface and contains many layers of keratinocytes.
It is a water resistant layer and is shed and replaced after every two weeks.
The main function of epidermis is;
a) It’s a water proof layer.
b) Provide protection from injury and penetration of microorganisms.
c) It makes the body insensitive to biological, chemical and physical injury.
 Dermis
It is located between epidermis and subcutaneous layer. it contains all sweat and oil glands,
hair follicles, connective tissues, nerve endings and lymph vessels. It provide pathogen
protection that our body needs. It consist of two layers;
a) Papillar layer
This layer consist of aerola connective tissue which contain collagen and elastic
fibre.it also contain small capillaries, lymphatic venules and sensory neurons.
b) Reticular layer
It contains dense irregular tissue, large blood vessels, lymphatic vessels and
nerve fibers. It also contain collagen fiber which adds strength and resiliency to
the skin.
Subcutaneous layer
It is also called subcutis / hypodermis layer. It provides insulation for our body keeping us
warm. It also provides a cushion that works like a shock absorber surrounding the vital
organs. This is the layer that attaches the skin to the muscles and tissues below it. It has
very few blood capillaries.

FUNCTION OF THE SKIN

1. Provides a protective barrier against mechanical, thermal and physical injury and
hazardous substances.
2. Consist of hair which is responsible for thermoregulation.
3. Reduces harmful effects of UV radiation.
4. Acts as a sensory organ (ie) touch, detects temperature.
5. Helps regulate temperature.
6. Its an immune organ to detect infections.
7. Responsible for production of vitamin D.