The accessory organs of the skin are hair, nails, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands. These structures develop from the epidermis but can extend down through the dermis into the hypodermis.
- Hair serves as insulation, protection from UV radiation, and sensory input.
- Nails protect the fingertips and aid in grasping and manipulating small objects.
- Sweat glands help regulate body temperature and excrete waste products.
- Sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and protects the skin.
