The Dermis: Container of the Skin’s Sensory and Support System

Right beneath the epidermis is the dermis. It is the second layer of a vertebrate’s skin. Hair follicles, glands, nerve endings and blood vessels can be found in this layer.

Unlike the epidermis, the dermis has a more permanent set-up since it contains vital parts. The epidermis cells eventually grow up and die as they form the outer skin. On the other hand, the dermis is the vascular and organelle layer.

The sweat glands release fluid in the process of perspiration. Sweat, which is mostly made of water and salts, helps in lowering body temperature. The layer also houses the sebaceous glands. These produce natural oil or sebum to coat the skin. Sebum protects the skin from bacterial intruders. It also helps retain the skin’s moisture.

Other than the glands, the blood vessels also help in regulating body temperature. When the temperature rises, the blood vessels expand so that more blood and water can pass. If it is cold, the vessels get narrow to retain body heat. Moreover, blood vessels facilitate transfer of water and nutrients.

The dermis also contains a huge network of nerve endings. This is how people are able to sense temperature, pressure, texture and pain. It is also part of the body’s defense system. When the nerves feel instant pain, they automatically send signals to the brain. This is why, in a split second, one jerk away from a sharp or hot object.

Hair is also rooted down to the dermis. The hair protects several body parts from extreme temperatures and trauma. Hair follicles also contain stem cells that can help restore damaged epidermis.

More importantly, this layer gives strength and flexibility to the skin. It acts like a mesh that toughens the outer layer attached to it. This ability comes from the chemicals collagen, fibrillin and elastin.