The skin secretes a variety of substances, including sweat, sebum, and pheromones. These secretions play important roles in maintaining skin health, regulating body temperature, and attracting mates.
- Sweat is secreted by eccrine glands and helps to regulate body temperature through evaporation.
- Sebum, a waxy or oily substance, is secreted by sebaceous glands and helps to moisturize and protect the skin. It also prevents hair from splitting.
- Pheromones are chemical signals that can influence the behavior of other individuals, often playing a role in attraction and mating.
The skin also secretes a variety of other substances, including cytokines and antimicrobial peptides, which help to protect the body from infection and inflammation.