On your paper, complete the following:  Using your book, define the following terms: Pore Melanin Follicle  Leave book open to page 490 when finished.

Answers  Pore – openings in the skin that allow sweat and oil to reach the surface  Melanin – a pigment found in skin that gives skin its color  Follicle – structures in the skin from which a hair grows

- The Skin The Epidermis  The skin is organized into two main layers: the epidermis and the dermis.

5 Functions 1. The skin protects against injury, infection, and water loss. 2. It helps maintain a steady temperature through sweating and constricting blood vessels. 3. Wastes are eliminated through the pores (sweat). 4. Your skin gathers information about your environment (nerves sense temperature/pain/pressure). 5. Vitamin D is produced when the skin absorbs sunlight. (helps bones)

Caring for your skin.  Eating a well-balanced diet provides the energy and raw materials needed for growth and replacement of skin.  Washing your skin with a mild soap eliminates dirt, harmful bacteria, and excess oil.  Limiting your amount of sun exposure helps prevent wrinkles and possibly cancer.

Skin Q & A:  What is a mole? Moles occur when cells in the skin grow in a cluster instead of being spread throughout the skin. These cells are called melanocytes, and they make the pigment that gives skin its natural color. Moles may darken after exposure to the sun, during the teen years, and during pregnancy. They usually appear during the first 30 years of life.

 What is a freckle? Freckles are small brown spots usually found on the face and arms. Freckles are extremely common and are not a health threat. They are more often seen in the summer, especially among lighter-skinned people and people with light or red hair. Causes of freckles include genetics and exposure to the sun.

 What causes a birthmark? Nobody really knows what the causes of birthmarks are. Experts say that vascular birthmarks (red/purple clusters of blood vessels) are not hereditary. Birthmarks are less common in Asian people, compared to individuals from other parts of the world. Birthmarks are blemishes on the skin that are noticeable at birth, or shortly afterwards.

 What is the difference between a bruise and a contusion? Nothing. A contusion is the scientific name for a bruise.  Can you tan the palms of your hands/soles of your feet? No, because they lack melanin. However, they will burn if they get too much sun exposure.

 Why do burns blister? When extra blood flows to the area to help heal the wound, the space between the epidermis and dermis fills with serum (plasma). This forms a cushion to help prevent further damage.

 Goosebumps?  Blushing?  Body odor?