How Skin and Subcutaneous Fat Regulate Body Temperature

The skin and hypodermis (subcutaneous fat) maintain temperature through:

1. Insulation: Adipose tissue reduces core heat loss.
2. Vasoconstriction/dilation: Vessels narrow to conserve heat or widen to release it.
3. Sweating: Evaporative cooling via sweat glands.
4. Hair: Enhances insulation.
5. Thermoreceptors: Detect temperature changes, signaling the brain.
6. Vasodilation in heat: Radiates heat from skin surface.

These mechanisms keep core temperature within a narrow, optimal range.