Chapter 6

Epidermis is the outermost main layer of the skin The epidermis has 5 sub layers o stratum corneum  stratified squamous epithelium  20 layers of dead cells - very flat  mostly keratin (protein)  normally the body sheds thousands per day outside inside

The epidermis has 5 sub layers o stratum lucidum  four layers at the top on palmar and plantar surface only o stratum granulosum  essentially dead cells  lysosomes have destroyed almost all organelles outside inside

Middle main layer beneath the epidermis Composed mostly of connective tissue Location rich in collagen, a structural protein

Components of the dermis o blood vessels o nerves hair follicles glands

Dermal papillae o finger-like projections of the dermis into the epidermis o rich in blood supply = blood and nutrients o zone of temperature regulation

Dermal papillae o Fingerprints - dermal friction ridges are a result of patterns of dermal papillae (epidermal ridges)

Adipose is stored here - energy storage in locations called subcutaneous fat pads The loose arrangement allows for skin movement Adipose is needed for insulation from heat loss