The skin is the body’s first line of defense. It acts as the first barrier against germs.
- Carotenoid coat: The skin forms the carotenoid coat in the body. Germs cannot enter the body through this membrane.
- Histiocyte: When the skin is cut or torn, the histiocyte cells come out and destroy the germs in the wound.
- Secretion of sweat and oil glands: Sweat and oily substances accumulate on the skin. These substances increase the pH. High pH kills bacteria.
- Acids and metabolic wastes: Bacteria accumulate acids and metabolic wastes on the skin. Bacteria cannot multiply due to these acids and metabolic wastes.
- Lysozyme: The skin contains an enzyme called lysozyme. This enzyme destroys the bacterial wall.
- Cerumen: Cerumen is a waxy substance known as ear wax. It is secreted from ceruminous glands. It resists bacteria, fungi and insects.
- Ultraviolet rays: The skin protects the body from the ultraviolet rays of the sun.