The dermis is the middle layer of the skin, located between the epidermis (top layer) and hypodermis (bottom layer) /5%3A_Integumentary_System/5.1%3A_The_Skin/5.1C%3A_Structure_of_the_Skin%3A_Dermis). It is a fibrous structure composed of collagen, elastic tissue, and other extracellular components that includes vasculature, nerve endings, hair follicles, and glands. The dermis consists of two layers: the papillary dermis and the reticular dermis/5%3A_Integumentary_System/5.1%3A_The_Skin/5.1C%3A_Structure_of_the_Skin%3A_Dermis).

• The papillary dermis is the top layer of the dermis, located just deep to the epidermis. It is composed of loose connective tissue that is highly vascular. The papillary layer is mainly composed of a combination of type III collagen and elastic fibers as well as a capillary loop which supplies blood to the epidermis. This capillary network also aids in regulating the temperature of the epidermis and superficial dermis/5%3A_Integumentary_System/5.1%3A_The_Skin/5.1C%3A_Structure_of_the_Skin%3A_Dermis).

• The reticular layer is the bottom layer of the dermis. It is thick and contains blood vessels, glands, hair follicles, lymphatics, nerves, and fat cells. A net-like structure of elastin fibers and collagen fibers surrounds the reticular dermis. These fibers support the skin’s overall structure, as well as allow it to move and stretch. The reticular layer contains dense irregular connective tissue, composed mainly of type I collagen with a lesser amount of elastic fibers. Inferiorly, the reticular layer is continuous with the hypodermis/5%3A_Integumentary_System/5.1%3A_The_Skin/5.1C%3A_Structure_of_the_Skin%3A_Dermis).

In summary, the two layers of the dermis are the papillary dermis and the reticular dermis.