Diagram of the Human Integumentary System (Infographic)

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Infographic: The layers and functions of the human skin.
The skin is the largest organ of the body, and helps protect it from the environment. (Image credit: Ross Toro, Livescience.com contributor)

The integumentary system, or skin, is the largest organ in the body. Besides the skin, it comprises the hair and nails as well, which are appendages of the skin. In humans, this system accounts for about 15 percent of total body weight. Skin and hair provide protection from harmful ultraviolet radiation and the skin guards against sunburn. It also waterproofs, cushions and protects the body from infection. The integumentary system excretes wastes and regulates body temperature. The skin is the body's initial defense against bacteria, viruses and other microbes. Human skin color is determined by the interaction of melanin, carotene and hemoglobin.

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Storage of water, fat, glucose and vitamin D is also a function of the integumentary system. The human skin is composed of three layers of tissue: • Epidermis: the top layer of skin. It does not contain blood vessels. The epidermis is about one-tenth of a millimeter thick. • Dermis: the middle layer of skin is composed of the Papillary layer and the Reticular layer. These layers provide elasticity. • Hypodermis: the deepest layer of skin helps insulate the body and cushion internal organs. The hypodermis is composed of adipose tissue that stores excess energy as fat.

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Ross Toro
Ross Toro
Infographics Artist
Ross Toro is a contributing infographic artist for Live Science. He specializes in explanatory graphics that deal with science topics. Ross is a former art director of the Los Angeles Times, Associated Press and United Press International. He teaches Filipino martial arts when not dabbling in cartoons and animation.