Dermis of the skin

Papillary layer

A thin superficial areolar connective tissue in which the collagen and elastin fibers form a loosely woven mat that is heavily invested with blood vessels.

Reticular layer

Accounting for 80% of the thickness of the dermis, is dense irregular connective tissue.

Functions of collagen fibers in the dermis

Gives skin strength and resiliency that prevent most jabs and scrapes from penetrating the dermis. In addition, it helps to bind water, helping to keep the skin hydrated.

Dermal papillae

Indents the overlying epidermis , contains capillary loops; others house free nerve endings and touch receptors called Meissner's corpuscles.

What makes up the dermis?

Its cells are those typical found in connective tissue which include fibroblasts, macrophages, and occasional mast cells and white blood cells. Its semifluid matrix is heavily embedded with fibers.

Dermal ridges

Lie on the hands and soles of the feet causing the overlying epidermis to form epidermal ridges.

Cutaneous plexus

Network of blood vessels that nourishes this layer lies between the dermis and hypodermis. Its extracellular matrix contains thick bundles of interlacing collagen fibers that run in various planes, mainly parallel to the skin surface.

What two layers make up the dermis?

Papillary layer and dermal papillae.

Dermis

Second major skin region, made of strong flexible connective tissue.

Function of the dermis?

The dermis binds the entire body together like a body stocking.

What is the dermis mainly supplied with?

The dermis is supplied with nerve fibers, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels. The major portions of hair follicles, as well as oil and sweat glands.