When hands and feet are immersed in water it s been shown that nerve fibers shrink and the skin s body temperature regulators lose volume which leads to wrinkling

When hands and feet are immersed in water, it’s been shown that nerve fibers “shrink” and the skin’s body temperature regulators lose volume, which leads to wrinkling.

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why your hands and feet tend to wrinkle after being submerged in water for a long time? It turns out that this isn’t just a random occurrence but rather a fascinating phenomenon that can be explained by the human body’s intricate biology. When our hands and feet are immersed in water, they go through certain changes that result in wrinkling. In this article, we will explore the scientific explanation behind this wrinkling phenomenon and understand why our nerve fibers “shrink” and the skin’s body temperature regulators lose volume when exposed to water for an extended period of time.

Nerve Fibers “Shrink” When Immersed in Water

Research has shown that when our hands and feet are soaked in water, the nerve fibers in our skin undergo a temporary “shrinkage.” These nerve fibers, also known as vasoconstrictor fibers, are responsible for controlling the constriction and dilation of blood vessels. When the nerve fibers shrink, they cause the blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the skin. As a result, the skin becomes less taut and wrinkling occurs. This process is similar to the wrinkling experienced by our fingertips when exposed to prolonged water contact during bathing, swimming, or doing household chores.

Decreased Volume of Skin’s Body Temperature Regulators

Apart from the “shrinkage” of nerve fibers, another factor contributing to the wrinkling of skin in water is the loss of volume in the body’s temperature regulators. The skin has specialized structures known as sweat glands, which help regulate body temperature through the production of sweat. These sweat glands are surrounded by contractile cells that control their size and volume. When hands and feet are immersed in water, these contractile cells lose volume due to water absorption. Consequently, the sweat glands become less prominent and lead to the wrinkling of the skin.

Scientific Explanation of Wrinkling in Water

The wrinkling phenomenon observed in hands and feet immersed in water is an evolutionary response of the human body. The precise reason behind this phenomenon is still not fully understood, but researchers believe that it may have evolved to enhance our grip on wet objects or provide better traction in wet environments. The wrinkled skin acts as a natural drainage system, channeling water away from the skin’s surface and offering improved grip and reduced slipperiness. It is fascinating to think that this seemingly inconsequential response may have once played a vital role in our ancestors’ survival.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricate biology behind the wrinkling of our hands and feet when submerged in water provides insights into the amazing adaptive capabilities of the human body. The shrinkage of nerve fibers and the loss of volume in the skin’s body temperature regulators are the primary factors responsible for this phenomenon. The temporary wrinkling of our skin in water may have once served an evolutionary purpose, offering improved traction and grip in wet environments. Next time you notice wrinkled hands or feet after a long bath or a swim, remember that it’s not just a cosmetic change but a fascinating adaptation that underscores the complexity of our physiology.

Source:

• News Medical - Why Does Skin Go Wrinkly in Water?