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## Skin Layers ### Melaninocytes - Spidery, brown to black pigment-producing cells - Functions: - Add color to the skin - Provide protection from UV radiation - Production increases when the skin is exposed to sunlight. ### Dermis - The second major region of the skin. - Dense fibrous...

## Skin Layers ### Melaninocytes - Spidery, brown to black pigment-producing cells - Functions: - Add color to the skin - Provide protection from UV radiation - Production increases when the skin is exposed to sunlight. ### Dermis - The second major region of the skin. - Dense fibrous connective tissue, it supports, protects and holds bone, muscle, and other tissue in place. - Contains: collagen and elastic fibers, fibroblasts, nerve endings, smooth muscle, glands, blood vessels, sensory receptors, and hair follicles. ### Papillary Layer - Dermal papillae produce fingerprints. - The unique pattern of loops and ridges in the epidermis that remain unchanged throughout life. - Functions: - Furnish nutrients for the epidermis. - Allow heat to radiate to the skin surface. - Meissner's Corpuscles are pain and temperature receptors. ### Reticular Layer - The deepest skin layer, accounts for 80% of dermis. - Contains blood vessels, sweat and sebaceous glands. - Pacinian receptors are pressure receptors. ### Hypodermis or Subcutaneous Tissue - It is not part of the skin. - Located below the dermis. - The foundation of the skin. - Attaches the skin to underlying muscle and bone. - Contains loose and adipose tissue. - Contains half of the body's fat/adipose tissue. - Acts as a shock absorber and insulates deeper tissue. - Body fat for females is 20-23% and for males is 13-25%. ### Skin Color and Variations - Determined by: - Pigments - Genetics - Blood circulation - Stratum corneum thickness - Melanocytes of darker skinned people produce more and darker melanin than fairer skinned people. - All races have the same amount of melanocytes.