The skin is the body’s largest organ and forms a protective covering that contributes to sensation, temperature regulation, immune defense, and maintenance of body fluid balance.
Skin consists primarily of the epidermis and dermis, together with associated structures such as hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands. The underlying hypodermis is closely associated with the skin but is anatomically distinct in some classifications.
The skin acts as a physical and biological barrier which protects against injury, infection, dehydration, and harmful environmental exposures, while producing vitamin D and also containing sensory receptors that allow the body to detect touch, pressure, pain, and temperature.
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An adult’s skin covers approximately 1.5 to 2 square metres and accounts for about 15% of total body weight.
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