Katy Fit Flyer
Come To Our Health Fair On Dec. 18, 2015!
The Function of The Integumentary System
The integumentary system is an organ system that has skin, hair, nails, and exocrine glands. The skin is only a few millimeters thick but is actually the largest organ in the body. Skin forms the body’s outer covering and forms a barrier to protect the body from chemicals, disease, UV light, and physical damage. The skin has 5 major functions; Protection, Temp. homeostasis, Sensation, Elimination, and Vitamin D production.
A Common Adolescent Disease/Disorder For This System
- Skin Cancer
- Warts
- Acne
- Eczema
- Moles .. Etc.
Prevention & Maintenance Required For This System To Be Healthy
Bathe every day and wash your hands regularly. Keep your skin and nails clean to prevent infections. Avoid using harsh soaps, hair treatments and other irritating chemicals, as they will cause excessive dryness. Water that's too hot will have the same effect, so use warm water in the shower or bath. Cut your fingernails and toenails straight across after bathing to avoid hangnails. Another way to take care of this system is to apply sunscreen before you spend time outdoors. Choose a formula that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation and has an SPF of 15 or higher. Over time, too much sun exposure contributes to wrinkles, skin cancer, freckles, aging and dilated blood vessels. Avoid using tanning beds because they are also damaging to your skin.