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How much skin does an average person have?

There are about 20 square feet (2 square meters) of skin covering the average human body. Weighing 6 pounds (2.7 kilograms), the skin is composed of two main layers: the epidermis (outer layer) and the dermis (inner layer).

The epidermis is continually replaced as new cells, produced in its bottom layer, mature and are pushed to the surface. There the new cells replace old, dead cells, which wash off or brush off. The entire epidermis is replaced approximately every 27 days.

The dermis contains nerve endings, sweat glands, hair follicles, and blood vessels. The upper portion of the dermis has small, fingerlike projections called papillae, which extend into the epidermis.

The tops of the papillae form ridges and grooves that are visible on the skin of the palms, fingertips, and soles of the feet. The capillaries (tiny vessels in the body that carry...

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1. Characteristics And Functions
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   2. What is the normal pH of blood, urine, and saliva?
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   4. How does the body introduce oxygen to the blood and where does this happen?
   5. How does the immune system work?
   6. How much blood is in the average human body?
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   17. What are considered healthy weights for men and women?
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