Where is Sweat Secreted?
Sweat is secreted by sweat glands located in the deeper layer of the skin, the dermis. There are two main types of sweat glands:
- These glands are found over most of the body and open directly onto the skin's surface. They produce a watery sweat that helps regulate body temperature. [Reference: Eccrine sweat glands occur over most of the body and open directly onto the skin's surface.]
Apocrine Sweat Glands
- Apocrine glands open into hair follicles, which then lead to the skin's surface. They are located primarily in areas with many hair follicles, such as the armpits, groin, and scalp. [Reference: Apocrine glands open into the hair follicle, leading to the surface of the skin. Apocrine glands develop in areas with many hair follicles, such as on the scalp, armpits and groin.]
- These glands produce a thicker, oily sweat containing lipids, proteins, sugars, and ammonia. [Reference: Apocrine glands produce viscous, lipid-rich sweat, which is also comprised of proteins, sugars, and ammonia.] The exact function of this type of sweat is not fully understood. [Reference: Apocrine sweat glands are located mostly in your armpits and genital area. They secrete oily sweat that doesn't have a clear function.]
In summary, sweat is produced by both eccrine and apocrine glands situated within the dermis, the deeper layer of your skin. Eccrine glands are distributed across most of your body, while apocrine glands are concentrated in specific areas like your armpits and groin.
