What is a key characteristic of eccrine glands?

Eccrine glands are an important type of sweat gland in the human body, characterized by their widespread distribution. They are located all over the body, with a particularly high concentration found on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. The primary function of eccrine glands is to help regulate body temperature through the secretion of a watery, odorless sweat, which cools the skin as it evaporates. This characteristic distinguishes them from other types of sweat glands, such as apocrine glands, which are primarily found in areas like the armpits and contribute to body odor due to a different composition of sweat. Eccrine glands play a crucial role in thermoregulation and maintaining homeostasis, which is essential for overall health.