Which of the following is NOT a function of the skin?

• A. Protection
• B. Temperature control
• C. Sensation
• D. Absorbing nutrients

Answer: (D)

The skin serves as a protective barrier, helps regulate body temperature, and enables sensation through nerve endings. Absorbing nutrients isn’t one of its roles because nutrients are taken up by the digestive system after food is broken down and then carried by the bloodstream. The skin can interact with substances on the surface and can absorb some items in very limited cases (like certain medications via patches), but it does not provide the nutrients the body needs. Vitamin D synthesis from sunlight is another skin-related process, but it’s a metabolic production, not nutrient absorption. So absorbing nutrients isn’t a function of the skin.