Dermis/Hypodermis

papillary layer

The upper dermis, made of areolar connective tissue, containing capillaries and sensory receptors.

areolar connective tissue

Loose tissue with collagen and elastic fibers that provides cushioning and holds fluids.

reticular layer

The deeper layer of the dermis made of dense irregular connective tissue.

dense irregular connective tissye

Tissue with irregularly arranged collagen fibers that resists stretching in multiple directions.

hair follicle

A sheath that surrounds the root of the hair and supports its growth.

hair shaft

The part of the hair that extends beyond the skin’s surface.

sebaceous gland

A gland that produces oily sebum to moisturize the skin and hair.

sweat glands

merocrine- A gland that secretes watery sweat for temperature control.

apocrine- A sweat gland found in armpits and groin; secretes thicker sweat often associated with odor.

arrestor pili muscle

A small muscle attached to hair follicles that causes hair to stand up.

blood vessels

Vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the skin and help with temperature regulation.

free nerve endings

Sensory receptors that detect pain and temperature.

tactile (Meissner’s) corpuscle

Nerve endings in dermal papillae that respond to light touch.

lamellar (Pacinian) corpuscle

Deep pressure and vibration receptors found deeper in the dermis or hypodermis.

dermal papilla

finger-like projections of the dermis that interlock with the epidermis; increase surface area for nutrient exchange and strengthen the connection between dermis and epidermis.

hypodermis- adipose tissue

Fat tissue beneath the skin; stores energy, cushions organs, and insulates the body.