What area does the skin cover on an average adult?

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and serves as a protective barrier while also playing vital roles in regulation and sensation. On average, adult human skin covers approximately 22 square feet. This area varies depending on factors such as age, size, and body composition, but 22 square feet is a commonly accepted estimate in medical and anatomical references.

This measurement highlights the extensive surface area of the skin, which is crucial for various functions, including temperature regulation through sweating and thermoregulation, sensation through a network of nerve endings, and acting as a defense against pathogens and environmental damage. Understanding the size of the skin as an organ is important in fields such as healthcare, dermatology, and surgical procedures.