The Dermis

The Dermis

The dermis lies below the epidermis and connects with the basal layer and is often described as the “true skin”.  It is responsible for the strength and elasticity of the skin.  It contains lots of specialised cells and structures, including nerves, blood vessels, glands and hair follicles.

It consists of two layers:  

• Papillary layer

This is the upper section and contains small tubes called capillaries, which carry blood and lymph.  It also has nerve endings.  This layer provides nutrients for living layers of epidermis.  It contains a thin arrangement of collagen fibre.

• Reticular layer

Consists of two types of protein:

Elastin fibres which give the skin its elasticity

Collagen fibres which give the skin its strength

These fibres are held in a gel-like substance called ‘ground substance’. The collagen and elastin fibres form a strong network which gives us our youthful appearance.

As we age, these fibres in the skin begin to harden and fragment; the network starts to break down and our skin starts to lose its elasticity and show visible signs of ageing.  Blood circulation to the skin declines; nutrients do not reach the surface, resulting in sallow skin.  The fatty layer beneath the skin grows thinner so we look more drawn as our bone structure is more prominent.  The reticular layer is vital to our skin’s health and appearance and so it is essential that it is looked after in order to prevent signs of ageing.