Skin

Skin is the largest organ of your body. It covers you from head to toe. Skin keeps the inside of your body safe. It blocks out germs, water, and dirt. It also helps you feel things like hot, cold, and soft. Your skin can stretch and grow as you grow.

Layers of Skin

Skin has three main layers. The top layer is called the epidermis. It is the part you can see and touch. The middle layer is the dermis. It holds sweat glands, hair roots, and tiny nerves. The bottom layer is made of fat. This layer keeps you warm and soft.

What Skin Does

Your skin does many big jobs. It keeps germs out so you do not get sick. It makes sweat to cool you down when you are hot. It helps your body make vitamin D from sunlight. Skin also heals itself when you get a cut or a scrape.

Fun Facts

• Your skin makes a new top layer about every month.
• An adult's skin can weigh around 8 pounds.
• You have more skin on the soles of your feet than almost anywhere else.

Did You Know?

Goosebumps happen when tiny muscles in your skin pull your hairs up straight when you feel cold or scared.