Skin

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Recommended: The integumentary system has many functions one of which is

The Integumentary system includes many different areas of the body including the hair, skin, and nails. The integument also serves many functions such as protection and insulation. The largest part of the integumentary system is the skin covering the entire body.
The first part of the integumentary system is the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the outer layer of the skin and functions as the major protection for the underlying skin and nerves. The epidermis is filled with tiny cells called keratin, which are dead cells that also help aid in protection. The epidermis also contains melanocytes which contain cells called melanin which are what give our skin color and absorb the light from the sun.
The second layer of the skin is the dermis. This is the thicker layer just beneath the epidermis. This layer contains collagen and elastin fibers to keep it firm and elastic to give it strength and flexibility. This layer also contains our body’s arteries, veins, hair follicles, and sweat glands.
It is very important to keep both layers of the skin protected and hydrated, as with any body system there are many diseases and foreign bodies that can affect the health of this organ. It is important to keep moisturized and if going into direct sunlight for long periods of time to apply sunscreen.
Several infections and injuries can occur in the skin, some of which include burns, abrasions, ulcers, abscess, and tinea. All of these infections and injuries affect the dermis and should be treated according to individual cases. An abscess would be classified as a pus containing caused by bacteria and requires antibiotic drugs. Tinea is a skin infection brought on by fungus that feed on the epidermal cells. It should be treated immedi...

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... and itching and can be treated with topical creams. Examples include: chemicals in detergents or lotions applied to the skin. Systemic reactions occur when the allergen is inhaled, injected, or ingested. This can have serious effects on the person by causing a reaction in more than one body system. Depending on the level of allergy the person may go into anaphylaxis—a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. Examples include: eating a food you are allergic to, or a bee sting.
The integumentary system is a major body system with many different areas that should be cared for daily. Just as any internal organ you want to keep this organ functioning to the best it can. The hair, skin, and nails provide lots of protection and insulation and without it working at its best we would be prone to many diseases and infections that float around in everyday life.

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