This is the skin, and skin derivatives; (hair, nails, glands and receptors). The integumentary system has many functions. It protects the body’s internal tissues and organs. The human body suffers from the potential invasion of thousands and millions of foreign particles and pollutants from the surrounding environment daily. The skin, together with the skin derivatives is the first line of defence against these harmful substances. Without the skin, pathogens are able to permeate our body easily, leaving our internal organs and tissues extremely vulnerable. The epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) possesses regenerative properties; the stratum corneum otherwise known as keratin is responsible for the secretion of sweat and acidic sebum, destroying microorganisms that are otherwise attached to the skin.

Skin diseases are usually easily discernible by the naked eye. They include acne, eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, warts, dermatitis and skin cancers etc.