Which layer of skin is described as being rich in blood vessels and nerves?

The dermis is the layer of skin that is rich in blood vessels and nerves. It is situated beneath the epidermis and is responsible for providing the skin with its structural integrity and elasticity. The presence of blood vessels in the dermis allows for nutrient exchange and thermoregulation, while the nerve endings contribute to sensory functions, such as the perception of touch, pain, and temperature. Understanding this layer is crucial, especially in medical contexts, as it plays a significant role in wound healing and overall skin health.

In contrast, the epidermis is the outermost layer of skin that primarily serves as a protective barrier but lacks blood vessels, receiving its nutrients through diffusion from the dermis. The hypodermis, located beneath the dermis, primarily consists of fat and connective tissue rather than skin cells and provides insulation and cushioning. The stratum corneum is the outermost part of the epidermis and consists of dead skin cells that also do not contain blood vessels or nerve endings, highlighting the specialized functions of these different layers of skin.