Which is NOT a function of the skin?

Which is NOT a function of the skin?

• A. Regulates body temperature
• B. Produces red blood cells
• C. Protects against UV light
• D. Acts as permeability barrier

Answer: (D)

The skin carries out several protective and regulatory roles important for staying healthy. It helps regulate body temperature through sweating and by adjusting blood flow in the dermal vessels, and it shields the body from UV radiation via pigment (melanin) and the epidermis’ thickness. It also acts as a permeability barrier, limiting water loss and entry of harmful substances. Producing red blood cells is not one of the skin’s functions; red blood cells are formed in the bone marrow. Therefore, the statement about RBC production does not describe a skin function, while the other functions do.

The skin carries out several protective and regulatory roles important for staying healthy. It helps regulate body temperature through sweating and by adjusting blood flow in the dermal vessels, and it shields the body from UV radiation via pigment (melanin) and the epidermis’ thickness. It also acts as a permeability barrier, limiting water loss and entry of harmful substances. Producing red blood cells is not one of the skin’s functions; red blood cells are formed in the bone marrow. Therefore, the statement about RBC production does not describe a skin function, while the other functions do.