Structure and Function of Skin, Hair, and Nails

May 2025 in “ Medicine ”

John A. McGrath

skin hair nails epidermis hair follicles dermis collagen elastic fibers skin diseases skin biology pathophysiology

TLDR Understanding skin, hair, and nails is vital for grasping their health and related diseases.

The document provides an overview of the structure and function of the skin, hair, and nails, emphasizing the complexity of the skin as the largest organ of the human body. It highlights the multilayered stratified epidermis, adnexal structures like hair follicles, and the dermis with collagen and elastic fibers. The text notes that over 1,000 skin-related diseases exist, with skin issues accounting for up to 20% of general practitioner visits, significantly impacting healthcare resources and patient quality of life. Understanding the skin's structure and function is crucial for comprehending both healthy skin biology and the pathophysiology of skin diseases.

View this study on medicinejournal.co.uk →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 1000+ results

Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

community Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

in Research 865 upvotes 1 year ago

The treatment for androgenetic alopecia involves using finasteride and minoxidil with intense exercise and cold exposure to boost metabolism and reduce androgenic effects, potentially leading to hair regrowth. This approach may activate biological pathways for improved hair and overall health.

community Keratin microspheres - breakthrough

in Research/Science 13 upvotes 1 year ago

A gel of keratin microspheres promotes hair follicle growth, showing similar effectiveness to minoxidil in mice. The treatment activates hair growth pathways and reduces inflammation, with potential applications in drug delivery for hair-related disorders.

community Microneedling must reach the stem cells in the upper hair shaft

in Treatment 80 upvotes 4 years ago

Microneedling should target depths of 0.5mm to 1.5mm for hair loss, with weekly sessions at 1mm recommended. Combining microneedling with Minoxidil is common for improved results.

community 6 months progress no fin 27m topical foam minox

in Progress Pictures 250 upvotes 2 years ago

The user has been using 5% Minoxidil foam twice daily, microneedling every two weeks, and Nizoral 2% shampoo weekly for hair loss treatment. They've seen improvements in their hairline and eyelashes, and are considering adding finasteride to their regimen.

community I started rapidly diffuse thinning at 22. I'm 42 now and have as much hair as I did at 16. AMA

in Treatment 443 upvotes 5 years ago

Hair loss treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, ketoconazole, PRP, and microneedling helped maintain hair for 20 years. Research and try evidence-based treatments for best results.

community Comprehensive Microneedling Guide

in Microneedling 290 upvotes 3 years ago

Microneedling for hair restoration involves daily use of a 0.3 mm device and weekly use of a 0.5 mm device. Combining microneedling with Minoxidil can enhance hair growth.

Similar Research

6 / 1000+ results

research Stem Cells and the Skin

22 citations , November 2012 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology”

Stem cells can rejuvenate skin, restore hair, and aid in wound healing.

Harnessing Neuroendocrine Controls of Keratin Expression: A New Therapeutic Strategy for Skin Diseases?

research Disrupted Ectodermal Organ Morphogenesis in Mice with a Conditional Histone Deacetylase 1, 2 Deletion in the Epidermis

32 citations , June 2013 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology”

Mice without certain skin proteins had abnormal skin and hair development.