FAB at University of Cambridge

Good perfusion (flow) in warm weather allows greater heat loss, while blood supply to the skin is reduced via vasoconstriction to preserve body heat in cooler conditions. 

This is mediated by arteriovenous anastomoses (connections between small arteries and veins).

Pacinian corpuscles and Meissner’s corpuscles.

Sebaceous glands are present throughout the skin, except the palms and soles.

They produce sebum which provides a protective covering for the skin.

The epidermis is a physical and chemical barrier between the body and the exterior

The dermis provides structural support to the skin

Deep to the dermis is a layer of loose connective tissue which is an important deposit of fat called the hypodermis.

The dermis supports the epidermis structurally and nutritionally. It provides considerable strength to the skin due to the arrangement of its collagen and elastic fibres.

Its thickness varies, being thin in the eyelids and thick on the back

The dermis is composed of two layers: a thin papillary layer (superficial) and a thicker reticular layer (deep).

Nails

Sweat Glands

Sebaceous Glands

Hair follicles

Eccrine sweat glands control body temperature and are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system.

Apocrine sweat glands are limited to the
axilla, mammary areola and anogenital region.

Meissner’s corpuscles are responsible for light touch and are concentrated in sensitive areas such as the fingers and lips.