How does the body primarily react to extreme temperatures through the integumentary system?

The body primarily reacts to extreme temperatures through the integumentary system by altering blood flow to the skin. When exposed to heat, the body increases blood flow to the skin's surface, promoting heat dissipation through radiation and convection. This process allows excess body heat to be released into the environment, helping to maintain a stable internal body temperature.

Conversely, in response to cold temperatures, blood flow to the skin decreases to conserve heat, redirecting it to vital organs. This constriction helps to preserve core body temperature by reducing heat loss through the skin. Therefore, the adjustment of blood flow is a crucial mechanism by which the body manages thermal balance, making it a vital response in the integumentary system's role in thermoregulation.

Other options, such as increasing sweat production or altering heart rate, do play roles in temperature regulation, but they are secondary mechanisms compared to the primary response of blood flow adjustment. Additionally, the secretion of oils is not a significant factor in temperature regulation.