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The Integumentary System

Functions about the Integumentary System

The function of the integumentary system is to protect the body from various kinds of damage such as loss of water or damages from outside. The integumentary system includes:

The skin performs six functions which include:

  1. Protection
  2. Absorption
  3. Excretion
  4. Secretion
  5. Regulation
  6. Sensation

The skin acts as the first line of defense against toxins, radiation, and other harmful pollutants. There are thousands of pores on the surface of the skin that absorb vitamins, acids, water, and oxygen in order to provide moisture and nourishment to our skin. Toxins are also released through pores and sweat glands. The skin secretes sebum, forming an acid mantle, which protects the skin from outside invasion. The skin regulates the body's temperature by sweating, which cools you because when the water evoporates, it gives off heat and cools the body. It also contains nillions of nerve endings that transport stimuli. These nerve endings allow us as humans to perceive sensations such as heat, cold, pain, and pressure.

This is an image of one's nails

Image of a part of one's nails

by Sarah Mae is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The function of your nails are to protect your fingertips from injury, exert counterpressure against your fingertip, which can help with the precise movements and touch sensitivity, and they provide a valuable tool for cutting, scraping, and pinching very fine objects.

Here are all of the main organ systems of the human body and some info about them: