How do skin glands contribute to skin health?

Skin glands play a crucial role in maintaining skin health primarily by producing substances that hydrate and protect the skin. These glands include sebaceous glands and sweat glands, both of which secrete important fluids that contribute to the skin's overall condition.

Sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that helps to moisturize the skin and hair, creating a protective barrier against environmental factors such as bacteria and fungi. This natural oil prevents excessive water loss, keeping the skin hydrated and supple. On the other hand, sweat glands are responsible for producing sweat, which not only helps in thermoregulation but also plays a role in skin hydration.

Together, these secretions help maintain the skin's pH balance and support its protective functions, making skin more resilient and less prone to infections and irritations. In contrast, the other options refer to functions not directly related to the role of skin glands, such as structural support, UV light absorption, or the formation of new skin cells, which involve different processes and structures within the skin.