Skin secretions (human)

Skin Secretions (Human)

Skin secretions in humans refer to the various substances that are produced and excreted by the skin. These secretions serve a variety of functions, including protection, lubrication, and temperature regulation. The primary types of skin secretions are sweat, sebum, and pheromones.

Sweat

Sweat is a watery secretion produced by the sweat glands. It is primarily composed of water, but also contains salts, sugars, and urea. Sweat plays a crucial role in thermoregulation, helping to cool the body through evaporation. It also helps to excrete waste products and maintain the body's salt balance.

Sebum

Sebum is an oily secretion produced by the sebaceous glands. It is composed of triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and free fatty acids. Sebum helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair, and also has antimicrobial properties.

Pheromones

Pheromones are chemical signals secreted by the skin that can influence the behavior or physiology of others. In humans, pheromones are thought to play a role in attraction and reproductive signaling.

Functions of Skin Secretions

Skin secretions serve several important functions:

• Protection: Skin secretions help to protect the skin from environmental factors such as UV radiation, bacteria, and dehydration.
• Lubrication: Sebum helps to keep the skin and hair moisturized, preventing dryness and cracking.
• Temperature Regulation: Sweat helps to cool the body when it becomes overheated.
• Communication: Pheromones secreted by the skin can communicate information to other individuals.

See Also

• Sweat gland
• Sebaceous gland
• Pheromones
• Skin