Your skin, or epidermis, is the largest organ of your body. It weighs between six and nine pounds and has a surface area of about 2 square yards. The skin acts as a barrier, separating and protecting your internal organs from the outside world. This includes protecting you from viruses and bacteria, regulating your internal body temperature and allowing you to feel and know the difference between hot/cold and wet/dry.
Certain conditions that cause irritation or inflammation can affect your skin in negative ways. Certain diseases, hereditary conditions, irritants, allergies and immune disorders can cause hives and other skin disorders. Symptoms of skin disorders generally include burning, itching, redness and swelling.