Definition: the second (middle) layer of the skin that lies between the epidermis and hypodermis and is responsible for giving the skin its structural support. The dermis is comprised of two layers, the papillary dermis and the recticular dermis.
The dermis contains collagen and elastin fibers, which give the skin its support, resiliency, and elasticity. (Damage or loss of these fibers lead to indentations in the skin's surface, which is why the dermis is where wrinkles originate.)
The dermis is also filled with blood and lymph vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous (oil-producing) glands.
Pronunciation: DUHR-miss
Also Known As: corium cutis
