1. Skin Structure
The Dermis

2. Skin cross-section

3. The Dermis This layer is found directly underneath the epidermis
Made up of 2 layers:
Papillary
Reticular
The dermis has a supportive role to play
Made up of connective tissue closely packed together
Has a higher water content

4. The Papillary Layer The higher of the 2 layers
Contains small tubes called capillaries which carry blood & lymph
Nerve endings can also be found in this layer inc touch, pain, cold & heat
The function of this layer is to provide “food” to the living layers of the epidermis

5. The Reticular Layer Found below the papillary layer
Collagen and elastin fibres found here which are responsible for the elasticity and general tone of the skin.
Sweat glands, sebaceous glands and the arrector pili muscle are found here
Pressure nerve endings can also be found in this layer.

6. What else would I find? Arrector pili muscle
Small muscles attached to the hair follicle.
When cold these muscles contract, making the hairs stand on end “goose bumps”.
Air is trapped between the skin and the hair warming the body

7. Sweat Glands Eccrine sweat gland found all over the body
sweat duct opens directly onto the skin (pore)
mixture of water, salts & toxins

8. Apocrine sweat gland Found in the underarm, groin & nipple areas
Secrete a milky substance
These glands are larger than eccrine and are attached to hair follicles
Controlled by hormones so do not become active until puberty
Body odour is caused by bacteria breaking down this type of sweat

9. Sebaceous glands Small, sac like structures producing sebum
Sebum is a fatty substance and acts as the skin’s natural moisturiser
Glands are found all over the body
Hormones control their activity
Sebum production decreases as we age
Mixes with sweat to produce the acid mantle, pH

10. Nerve Endings Sensory nerve endings
Found all over the body especially fingertips and lip area
The nerves make us aware of touch, pain, pressure, heat/cold
Messages are sent from these nerves to the brain

11. Motor nerve endings
These receive messages from the brain and carry them around the body
Motor nerves stimulate an action/response
e.g. muscle contraction, sweat glands, sebaceous gland

12. Blood vessels
These vessels make sure the skin gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs to live
Waste products such as carbon dioxide and metabolic waste are removed

13. Subcutaneous Layer Found under the dermis
Can also be called the hypodermis
Consists of adipose tissue (fat) and areolar tissue
Adipose tissue – major energy reserve, supports & protects against injury. Acts as an insulator – helps keep you warm
Areolar tissue contains collagen & elastin fibres making this layer elastic and flexible
Generally thicker in women than men