The two main types of glands found in the dermis are eccrine glands and apocrine glands. These are both sweat glands, but they differ in their location and function.
Eccrine Glands
- Eccrine glands are distributed widely across the body.
- They open directly onto the skin's surface through pores.
- Their primary function is thermoregulation (controlling body temperature) through sweat evaporation.
- Dermcidin, an antimicrobial peptide, is constitutively produced by these glands. (Source: Staphylococcus colonization of the skin and antimicrobial peptides...)
Apocrine Glands
- Apocrine glands are located primarily in the armpits and groin areas.
- They open into hair follicles, not directly onto the skin's surface.
- They produce a thicker, oily sweat that can contribute to body odor. (Source: Anatomy, Skin Sweat Glands - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf, Source: Sweat glands - Mayo Clinic, Source: Heat rash - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic)
In addition to sweat glands, the dermis also contains sebaceous glands, which produce sebum (oil). While not technically sweat glands, sebaceous glands are crucial for skin health, preventing dryness and inhibiting bacterial growth. (Source: Integumentary System | Biology for Majors II, Source: Dermis (Middle Layer of Skin): Layers, Function & Structure)
