Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which skin layer contains the majority of the skin's living cells?

1. Epidermis

2. Dermis

3. Hypodermis

4. Stratum Corneum

The correct answer is: Dermis

The dermis is the layer of skin that contains the majority of the skin's living cells. It is situated beneath the epidermis and comprises two main layers: the papillary dermis and the reticular dermis. The dermis contains essential components for skin health and function, including blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and glands, such as sebaceous (oil) glands and sweat glands. Within the dermis, you’ll find a variety of living cells, including fibroblasts, which produce collagen and elastin, providing strength and elasticity to the skin. Additionally, immune cells and other specialized cells are present, contributing to the overall health of the skin. This layer plays a crucial role in the skin’s structural integrity and supports the epidermal layer above it. The epidermis, while important, is primarily made up of keratinocytes that are in various stages of development, with the outermost layer—called the stratum corneum—consisting mainly of dead skin cells that serve as a protective barrier. The hypodermis, on the other hand, is not considered a layer of skin but a subcutaneous tissue layer that consists mainly of fat and connective tissues. It serves to insulate the body and protect