What are the primary layers of the skin?

The primary layers of the skin are indeed the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue.

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, consisting of stratified squamous epithelium. It serves as a protective barrier against environmental factors such as pathogens and chemicals, as well as preventing water loss from underlying tissues. The epidermis contains various cell types, including keratinocytes, melanocytes, and Langerhans cells, each playing distinct roles in skin function and health.

Beneath the epidermis lies the dermis, which is much thicker and composed of connective tissue. The dermis provides structural support, elasticity, and strength to the skin. It contains blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and sweat and sebaceous glands. The dermis is crucial for thermoregulation and sensation.

The subcutaneous tissue, also referred to as hypodermis, anchors the skin to underlying structures, such as muscles and bones. While it is often considered beneath the skin layers rather than a primary layer of the skin itself, it plays a significant role in insulation and energy storage.

This comprehensive understanding underscores why the first answer choice correctly identifies the primary layers of skin as the epidermis, dermis, and