Louisiana Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which layer of skin is known as the dermis?

1. The outermost layer of skin

2. The layer containing hair follicles and sweat glands

3. The clear layer that allows light penetration

4. The layer directly above the epidermis

The correct answer is: The layer containing hair follicles and sweat glands

The layer of skin known as the dermis serves several crucial functions that are integral to skin health and overall physiology. This layer is situated beneath the epidermis and is characterized by its structure, which includes not only connective tissue but also important elements such as hair follicles and sweat glands. These components play vital roles in thermoregulation, sensation, and the maintenance of skin elasticity and strength. The presence of hair follicles is significant as they are responsible for the growth of hair and contribute to the sensory perception of touch. Sweat glands in the dermis, which can be either eccrine or apocrine glands, are essential for regulating body temperature and excreting waste through sweat. In contrast, the outermost layer of skin refers to the epidermis, which does not contain the structures found in the dermis. The clear layer mentioned in one of the options pertains to the stratum lucidium, typically found in thicker skin areas such as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and plays a role in transparent protection rather than the functions of the dermis. Lastly, the notion of a layer directly above the epidermis does not accurately depict any of the existing skin structures, as the dermis is located below the epidermis. Understanding the