Difference between Epidermis and Dermis
Main difference
The term epidermis and dermis refers to the outer layer of the body that protects the skin from infection and contamination. If we look at it from a general perspective, there is a fine line of difference between the dermis and the epidermis. The main difference that can be established is that the epidermis refers to the outermost part of the body that protects the body from trauma, dehydration and infections, while the dermis refers to the tissue just below the epidermis.
Comparative chart
Epidermis | Dermis |
Source | |
Ectoderm | Mesoderm |
Vascularity | |
Avascular | Vascular |
Features | |
Keratinized stratified epithelium | It contains extracellular matrix and skin appendages. Superficial = Papillary, Very vascularized Lax; Deep = reticular, less vascular. |
Main cells | |
Melanocytes Keratinocytes | Fibroblasts Adipocytes Macrophages |
Nerves | |
It does not contain nerves. | It contains nerves that carry nerve impulses through the central nervous system to the brain. |
What is the dermis?
In a living cell, the thick inner layer of tissue is called the dermis. It is found under the epidermis, which contains blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The dermis provides extensibility, firmness and strength to the skin, thus protecting it from infections. Helps the epidermis to acquire oxygen and nutrients.
What is the epidermis?
In a living organism, the outermost layer that covers the body is called the epidermis. The epidermis is visible to the eye while the dermis is invisible since it is located on the inside. The main function of the epidermis is to protect the internal structures of the body from trauma, dehydration and infection. It also performs the functions of skin cell renewal.
- The term dermis and epidermis are related to the human and animal body.
- Both the dermis and the epidermis act as the protective outer layer of the body and are very important components of our body.
- The epidermis does not contain blood vessels, while the dermis contains capillaries below the epidermis.
- The epidermis is not made up of nerves, while the dermis contains nerve impulses that pass through the brain.
- The epidermis is nourished by diffusion from the dermis.
- The epidermis is made up of keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkels cells.
- The dermis is basically made up of connective tissues and contains skin appendages.