Learning Objectives
- Identify the structural components of the integumentary system
- Correlate the structural components of the integumentary system with their functions
- Identify the major chemical secretions of the integumentary system
- Illustrate the relationships among the components of the integumentary system
- Summarize the functions of the integumentary system
The integumentary system refers to the skin and its accessory structures, which make up the largest organ system in the human body. The skin is about 16 percent of body weight and covers an area of 1.5 to 2 square meters. This chapter will discuss the structures and functions of the integumentary system as well as common skin disorders.
Career Connections
There are many potential careers related to the integumentary system:
- Dermatology is the study of the integumentary system. A dermatologist is a physician who specializes in treating skin, nail, hair and mucous membrane-related conditions. There are many dermatologic subspecialties such as cosmetic dermatology, dermatopathology, and pediatric dermatology.[1]
- An aesthetician is a licensed professional that works in clinical settings and performs clinical skin procedures for conditions such as burns, scars, and injuries.[2]
- An esthetician is a skin care professional who works in salon settings and performs cosmetic and skin cleaning procedures, such as facials, chemical peels, and hair removal.[3]
- A cosmetologist is a state-licensed beautician who works in salon settings and is qualified to provide a wide variety of beauty services related to hair and nails.[4]
- Indeed Editorial Team. (2025). Learn about being a dermatologist. Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-a-dermatologist-do ↵
- Indeed Editorial Team. (2025). Learn about being a dermatologist. Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-a-dermatologist-do ↵
- Indeed Editorial Team. (2025). Aesthetician vs. esthetician: Definitions and differences. Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/aesthetician-vs-esthetician ↵
- Indeed Editorial Team. (2025). Learn about being a cosmetologist. Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-a-cosmetologist-do ↵
The organ system that includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, serving as a protective barrier for the body.
The medical specialty focused the study of the integumentary system.
A medical doctor specializing in treating skin, hair, and mucous membrane-related conditions.
A licensed professional that works in clinical settings and performs clinical skin procedures for conditions such as burns, scars, and injuries.
A skin care professional who works in salon settings and performs cosmetic and skin cleaning procedures, such as facials, chemical peels, and hair removal.
A state-licensed beautician who works in salon settings and is qualified to provide a wide variety of beauty services related to hair and nails.
