What is the deeper layer of the skin known as?

The deeper layer of the skin is known as the dermis. This layer sits beneath the outermost layer, the epidermis, and is responsible for many of the skin's functions. The dermis is composed of dense connective tissue, which provides strength and elasticity to the skin. It contains essential structures like blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, hair follicles, and nerve endings, playing a critical role in sensation and thermoregulation.

The dermis is divided into two layers: the papillary dermis, which is the upper layer containing small blood vessels and sensory neurons, and the reticular dermis, which is thicker and contains larger blood vessels, glands, and hair follicles. This structure contributes to the overall integrity and health of the skin, allowing it to respond to various environmental stimuli and maintain hydration and nutrition.

Other choices refer to layers or tissue types that serve different functions. For instance, the hypodermis, or subcutaneous layer, is located beneath the dermis and primarily functions as insulation and energy storage. The epithelium refers to the layers of cells covering body surfaces and does not encompass the deeper structures like the dermis. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting mainly