Introduction
Skin: Structure
The skin is composed of three main layers: epidermis, the top layer; dermis, the middle layer; and hipodermis, the bottom or fatty layer.
Epidermis
Keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, Merkel cells.
The four Layers
- The basal cell layer (stratum basale).
- The prickle cell layer (stratum spinosum).
- The granule cell layer (stratum granulosum).
- The keratinised squames layer (stratum corneum).
Dermis
Collagen (Type I and II), elastin, proteoglycans, hair follicles, glands (apocrine, eccrine and sebaceous), blood vessels, nerves.
The two Layers
- The papillary dermis (the superficial layer under the epidermis).
- The reticular dermis (dermis).
Hypodermis (Fatty Layer)
Adipose tissue, large blood vessels, nerves.