Which skin layer houses blood vessels and nerves?

• A. Dermis
• B. Epidermis
• C. Hypodermis
• D. Stratum corneum

Answer: (A)

The layer that contains blood vessels and nerves is the dermis, the middle layer of the skin. The epidermis above it has no blood vessels and depends on diffusion from the dermis for nutrients. The dermis houses a rich network of vessels that supply the skin and sensory nerves that detect touch, pressure, temperature, and pain. It also contains structures like hair follicles and sweat glands, all supported by this vascular and neural infrastructure. Below the dermis lies the hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue), which has fat and larger vessels and nerves but is not considered part of the skin proper. The outermost stratum corneum is a layer of dead cells with no blood vessels.