Skin

Question 0

Explain what the Epidermis is?

Answer 0

The outer layer of the Epidermis is made up of dead cells. The Malpighian layer (the bit we can’t see) contains a pigment that protects us from harmful rays of the sun.

Question 1

What is the skin?

Answer 1

The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is an excretory organ (removes waste such as water and salt). It is made up of the epidermis (outer layer) and the dermis (inner layer).

Question 2

Explain what the Dermis is?

Answer 2

The Dermis is the inner layer of our skin.

Question 3

What does the Dermis contain?

Answer 3

The dermis contains;
~ a sweat gland.
~ pores.
~ blood vessels.
~ nerves.
~ oil glands.
~ hairs.
~ fat cells.

Question 4

Explain the term sweat gland.

Answer 4

The sweat gland is found on the dermis and produces water and salt (sweat) from the body.

Question 5

Explain the term pores.

Answer 5

Pores are found in the dermis, were they let sweat escape from the body.

Question 6

Explain the term blood vessels.

Answer 6

Blood vessels (veins and arteries) are found in the dermis and their function is to supply the skin with oxygen and nutrients.

Question 7

Explain the term nerves.

Answer 7

Nerves are found in the dermis and their function is to allow us to feel sensations, eg. hot, cold, pain.

Question 8

Explain the term oil glands.

Answer 8

Oil glands are found in the dermis and their function is to produce oil to moisten the skin.

Question 9

Explain the term hairs.

Answer 9

The muscle of the hair is found in the dermis and the function of this muscle is to allow the hair to stand upright when we are cold or when we get a fright.

Question 10

Explain the term fat cells.

Answer 10

Fat cells are found in the dermis and their function is to insulate the body.

Question 11

What are the functions of the skin?

Answer 11

Functions;
~ It’s an excretory organ(removes excess water and salt in the form of sweat)
~ Maintains the body temperature (37 degrees)
~ Protects against harmful rays of sun and disease.
~ It allows you to feel cold, heat or pain.
~ Produces Vitamin D.

Question 12

What are the guidelines to healthy skin?

Answer 12

Guidelines;
~ Wash the body everyday.
~ Change your underwear everyday.
~ Avoid touching spots.
~ Wash hands regularly
~ Cleanse, tone (to close pores) and moisturise your face.
~ Eat a healthy diet.
~ Get enough sleep.
~ Avoid over-exposure to the sun.
~ Avoid skincare products that cause soreness or allergic reactions.
~ Avoid cigarettes and alcohol.

Question 13

What is body odour?

Answer 13

Body Odour is produced when bacteria on the skin work on sweat. An unpleasant odour is produced when the skin is not washed. It should be removed by washing everyday and changing clothes.

Question 14

What is the difference between deodorants and antiperspirants?

Answer 14

Deodorants help prevent body odour, whereas antiperspirants help prevent perspiration.

Question 15

What is Acne?

Answer 15

Acne is a skin condition that occurs during adolescence. Extra oil produced blocks pores and bacteria on the skin cause infection.

Question 16

Why is over-exposure to the sun a bad thing?

Answer 16

Over-exposure to the sun is damaging to the skin. It can cause skin cancer (Melanoma) and premature ageing and sunburn.

Question 17

What should you do to sunbathe safely?

Answer 17

Safe-sunbathing requires you to wear a wide brimmed hat, sunscreen on areas visible to the sun, wear a t-shirt and avoid the sun between 11:00am and 3:00pm.

Question 18

What are the guidelines to personal hygiene?

Answer 18

Guidelines;
~ Wash hands properly after going to the toilet and before eating.
~ Wash all over your body everyday, especially underarms, feet and groin area.
~ Washing is very important after exercise.
~ Brush your teeth every morning and night.
~ Change underwear and socks everyday.
~ Change and wash outer clothes regularly.
~ Wash hair at least once a week.
~ Girls should change sanitary pads or tampons regularly during menstruation and wash hands afterwards.