Author: Mr. Ashutosh Jain
Volume: 01
First Online: 31 August 2024
Pages: 111-117
DOI:

The integumentary system is a complex organ system that serves as the body’s first line of defense against environmental hazards. Comprising the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, this system plays a critical role in protecting the body from physical damage, pathogens, and dehydration. The skin, the largest organ, consists of three primary layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, each with specialized functions. The epidermis acts as a barrier, the dermis provides strength and elasticity through collagen and elastin fibers, and the hypodermis insulates and cushions the body. Hair and nails, made of keratin, further protect sensitive areas and enhance sensation. Glands within the skin, such as sweat and sebaceous glands, contribute to temperature regulation, excretion, and maintaining the skin’s moisture balance. Overall, the integumentary system is vital for homeostasis, sensory perception, and contributing to the body’s immune response.