Structure of Skin
The structure of skin diagram gives a clear idea of its constituents. It is made up of about 70% water, 25% proteins, and 3% lipids. The reminder includes minerals, nucleic acids, glycosamines, proteoglycans, and numerous other chemicals. The skin has three main layers:
- Epidermis
- Dermis
- Hypodermis
Epidermis
- The epidermis is the outer protective layer of the skin.
- Made of keratinocytes filled with the protein keratin.
- Melanocytes produce melanin, providing skin color and protection from the sun.
- Merkel cells detect light touches, and Langerhans cells boost the immune system
- Epidermis Layers is separated into numerous layers:
- Stratum Corneum: Outermost layer with flat, dead cells.
- Spinous and Granular cells: Cells change shape and size, producing keratin.
- Basal cell layer: Constantly replaced with new cells, growing fast due to nutrients.
- Epidermal Cell Types:
- Melanocytes: Produce melanin for sun protection
- Keratinocytes: Main cells progressing upward from the deepest layer
- Langerhans cells: Immune system cells defending against invaders
Dermis
- The dermis lies below the epidermis, comprising connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and appendages.
- It consists of two layers:
- Papillary layer – Near the epidermis, it contains capillaries, lymphatics, and sensory receptors
- Reticular layer – Dense connective tissue contains blood vessels, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles.
- Nerves in the dermis detect environmental stimuli and regulate pressure and temperature.
- Hair follicles and sebaceous oil glands produce sebum, lubricating and protecting the skin.
- Sweat glands distributed throughout the skin produce sweat to eliminate salts and minerals like urea, aiding in temperature regulation.
Hypodermis
- The subcutaneous layer, or hypodermis, is the innermost skin layer composed of fat.
- Thickness varies across the body, thinner around the eyes for easier movement..
- Fat stored here acts as an energy reserve, helps in temperature regulation, and provides insulation.
- It cushions internal organs, muscles, and bones, supporting and protecting them.
Diagram of Skin
The diagram of skin helps us understand the skin’s structure and function. The skin consists of the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis layers, providing protection, sensation, and regulation of body temperature. The skin diagram labeled shows the accessory structures such as hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands.
Given below is a well-labeled diagram of skin:
Table of Content
- What is Skin?
- Structure of Skin
- Skin Functions
- Conclusion: Diagram of Skin
- FAQs on Diagram of Skin