Skin Facts

By Regina Bailey, About.com Guide   July 27, 2011

Image Credit: Nutdanai Apikhomboonwaroot/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Did you know that the skin is the largest organ in the body? This extraordinary organ protects the internal structures of the body from damage, prevents dehydration, stores fat and produces vitamins and hormones. It also helps to maintain homeostasis within the body by assisting in the regulation of body temperature and water balance.

The skin is the body's first line of defense against bacteria, viruses and other microbes. It also helps to provide protection from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The skin is a sensory organ in that it has receptors for detecting heat and cold, touch, pressure and pain. Components of the skin include hair, nails, sweat glands, oil glands, blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves and muscles.

Learn more about organ systems of the body, see:

    Cardiovascular System
    Circulatory System
    Nervous System
    Organ Systems Quiz

