ABSTRACT
Skin is the largest organ in the body, constituting about 12% of body weight and
covering an area of up to 2 sq.m. in an average adult. The thickness of skin ranges
from 2 mm in such areas as palms and soles to 0.5 mm on the eyelids. Skin com-
prises two major layers-the outer epidermis and the underlying dermis-which
are distinct in architecture, physiology, and function. Embedded in the dermis are
several types of appendages such as the hair follicle, sweat glands, and sebaceous
glands that are unique to skin. Skin also contains systems that are common to
other organs, such as elements of the vasculature and nerve fibers (1).
