5. KeratinocytesMelanocytes Keratin cells that PRODUCE KERATIN. THE FIBROUS PROTEIN THAT MAKES THE EPIDERMIS A TOUGH PROTECTIVE LAYER A PIGMENT THAT RANGES IN COLOR FROM YELLOW TO BROWN TO BLACK. SPECIAL SPIDER SHAPED CELLS PRODUCE MELANIN Freckles and moles are seen where melanin is concentrated in one spot.

12. CollagenElastic Responsible for the toughness of the dermis Attract and bind to water (helps keep the skin hydrated) Give skin its elasticity when we are young As we age, they decrease in number, and the subcutaneous layer loses fat. As a result, the skin loses its elasticity and begins to sag and wrinkle.

15. Papillary LayerReticular Layer Upper dermal region Has peg-like projections from its superior surface (dermal papillae) which indents the epidermis above Many contain capillary loops which furnish epidermis with nutrients Others house pain and touch receptors called Meissner’s Corpuscles Hands and Palms Papillae are arranged in patterns to form loops and swirls that are genetically determined (fingerprints) Increase friction and gripping ability in the area. Deepest skin layer Contains blood vessels, sweat and oil glands, and deep pressure receptors (Pacinian Corpuscles) Contain phagocytes that act to prevent bacteria that have managed to get through the epidermis from penetrating deeper into the body.