Transcript Absorption - SVN3Ewinter2012

Yet another way that
pollutants can get in our
bodies
Absorption through the skin
Skin
Skin is the first line of defense against a hostile
world. Skin...
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Keeps pathogens and infections out.
Keeps the body at the right temperature.
Keeps the proper amount of moisture inside.
Skin
Skin has three main layers:
1.epidermis (epi means above)
2.dermis
3.subcutaneous layer (fatty tissue)
Skin
Epidermis
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The top layer that
you can see.
Has a top layer of
dead cells and they
often fall off.
Has a bottom layer
of growing cells.
Dermis
The middle layer.
It contains:
• many tiny blood
cells (capillaries).
•
many nerve endings
for feeling.
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hair follicles
sweat glands
Subcutaneous Layer
The layer of fat cells all around us to protect
and insulate us from the cold.
Sometimes it is called
the hypodermis.
Absorption
The skin tries to keep things out, but some
things make it through.
Skin can absorb some:
oils and tars
alcohols
cleaning products
pesticides
medicines
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Absorption
Once contaminants get
through your skin,
they will get into your
bloodstream.
The contaminants are
spread throughout the
body through all the
blood vessels.
Examples of contaminants absorbed by skin
• Chlorine in swimming pools or in shower (can
cause skin irritation; link to cancer?)