Epidermis___The_outermost_layer_of_the_skin__composed_of_stratified_

Epidermis

The outermost layer of the skin, composed of stratified squamous epithelium, providing protection and preventing water loss.

Stratum Basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis, consisting of basal cells that actively divide and contains melanocytes and Merkel cells.

Stratum Spinosum

A layer of the epidermis above the stratum basale where keratinocytes begin to strengthen and form desmosomal connections.

Stratum Granulosum

A middle layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes begin to die and accumulate keratohyalin granules, contributing to the skin’s waterproof barrier.

Stratum Lucidum

A thin, transparent layer of dead keratinocytes found only in thick skin, adding extra protection.

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of flattened, dead keratinocytes filled with keratin, forming a protective barrier.

Keratinocytes

The primary type of cell in the epidermis that produces keratin, a protein that provides strength and waterproofing.

Melanocyte

A cell located in the stratum basale that produces melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and protection against UV radiation.

Merkel Cell (Tactile Disc)

A sensory receptor cell in the stratum basale that responds to light touch stimuli.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis, composed of connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and accessory structures.

Papillary Layer

The superficial layer of the dermis, made of loose connective tissue and containing dermal papillae.

Dermal Papillae

Fingerlike projections of the papillary layer that extend into the epidermis, containing capillaries and touch receptors.

Tactile Corpuscle

A sensory receptor found in dermal papillae that detects light touch.

Reticular Layer

The deeper layer of the dermis composed of dense irregular connective tissue, housing blood vessels, glands, and sensory receptors.

Sebaceous Gland

An oil-producing gland in the reticular layer that secretes sebum to keep skin and hair moisturized.

Sweat Gland

A gland in the dermis responsible for producing sweat to regulate body temperature and remove waste.

Lamellated Corpuscle

A deep pressure receptor found in the reticular layer of the dermis that detects vibrations and pressure.

Free Nerve Ending

Unencapsulated nerve endings in the dermis that detect pain, temperature, and some touch sensations.