How does the skin contribute to thermoregulation?

The skin plays a critical role in thermoregulation primarily by increasing blood flow and producing sweat. When the body temperature rises, blood vessels in the skin dilate, allowing more blood to flow near the surface. This process, known as vasodilation, helps dissipate heat through radiation, conduction, and convection. As the body continues to heat up, sweat glands become active and release sweat onto the skin's surface. The evaporation of sweat cools the skin and, consequently, the body. This dual approach of altering blood flow and facilitating sweat evaporation allows the skin to effectively regulate body temperature, ensuring that it remains within a healthy range.

Other mechanisms, such as trapping heat or absorbing environmental heat, are not the primary functions of the skin in thermoregulation. While hairs can provide some insulation, the key processes operated by blood flow and sweat production are essential for actively regulating body temperature.