[02] Skin Color and Temperature Regulation Flashcards
What are the three pigments that determine skin color?
- Melanin
- Hemoglobin
- Carotene
What is melanin?
A pigment produced by melanocytes in the epidermis that gives skin its color
What is the function of melanin in skin color?
Determines the darkness of skin color; the more melanin produced, the darker the skin
What is hemoglobin?
An oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells that gives blood its red color
How does hemoglobin influence skin color?
Hemoglobin gives a pink or red hue to the skin in individuals with lighter skin tones
What is carotene?
An orange-yellow pigment found in certain vegetables that can cause the skin to have a yellow-orange color when consumed in large quantities
How does the skin regulate body temperature?
Through the process of thermoregulation, which involves vasodilation, vasoconstriction, and sweating
What is vasodilation?
The widening of blood vessels, which allows more heat to be carried to the skin surface for release
What is vasoconstriction?
The narrowing of blood vessels, which reduces heat carried to the skin and conserved body heat
How does vasodilation help in temperature regulation?
It increases blood flow to the skin, promoting heat loss
How does vasoconstriction help in temperature regulation?
It reduces blood flow to the skin, conserving body heat
How does sweating help in temperature regulation?
As sweat evaporates, it takes away heat from the skin, cooling the body
What part of the brain regulates body temperature?
Hypothalamus
How does the hypothalamus regulate body temperature?
It receives information from nerve receptors in the skin and adjusts the body’s heat production and loss accordingly
What is hypothermia?
A condition where the body’s temperature falls below normal levels
