Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels and nerves?

The layer of the skin that contains blood vessels and nerves is the dermis. This layer is located beneath the epidermis and is composed of connective tissue that provides strength, elasticity, and support to the skin. It houses vital structures such as blood vessels, which deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin, and nerves, which facilitate sensations like touch, pain, and temperature.

The dermis is further divided into two layers: the papillary layer, which is the upper part that interlocks with the epidermis, and the reticular layer, which is deeper and thicker, forming the bulk of the dermis. This rich vascular and nerve supply is crucial for maintaining skin health and responding to external stimuli.

The epidermis, in contrast, is the outermost layer of the skin primarily made up of keratinized cells and does not contain any blood vessels or nerves. The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, lies below the dermis and consists mainly of fat and connective tissue, serving as insulation and energy storage, but it is not considered a true layer of the skin. The stratum corneum, meanwhile, is the outermost layer of the epidermis made up of dead skin cells that provide a protective barrier