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Skin, the outermost layer of the human body, serves as the body’s initial barrier against foreign particles. It is the largest organ of the human body and functions as a barrier between the outside and inside environment. Skin is composed of different layers, cells, and tissues.
Human skin plays an important role in overall health and well-being, which is divided into three main areas, namely dermis, epidermis and hypodermis.
Here, in this article, let us discuss the differences between dermis and epidermis. The main difference between the epidermis and the dermis lies in their structure.
The various differences between the two are given below in a tabular column.
Epidermis vs Dermis
| Epidermis | Dermis |
| The outermost layer of cells that covers the body of an organism | A layer of living cells below the epidermis consisting of nerve endings, blood vessels, sweat glands and hair follicles |
| It doesn’t contain blood vessels | Comprises a thin network of vessels known as capillaries |
| No nerves present in the epidermis | Comprises nerves that conduct nerve impulses from the central nervous system toward the brain. The sensation of pain originates from the open nerve ending of this layer. |
| Obtains essential nutrients and oxygen by diffusion from the dermis | Obtains oxygen and nutrients from the blood capillaries |
What is Epidermis?
The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, which is composed of cells called keratinocytes – made of a protein called keratin. The epidermis is made of four main layers and functions by protecting and safeguarding the internal cells and tissues.
What is Dermis?
The dermis is the layer of the skin present beneath the epidermis of the skin. This layer consists of fat, fibres, collagen and blood vessels which make the skin flexible and strong. The dermis is also involved in the synthesis of Vitamin D on exposure to sunlight. They are also involved in regulating body temperature.
These were a few differences between the dermis and the epidermis.
The epidermis and dermis together form the basic body covering of the skin and both perform the function of protecting internal organs from dehydration, infectious diseases and other damages.
Also Refer: Sense Organs
Learn more in detail about the Skin, Epidermis, Dermis, its structure, functions and other related topics at BYJU’S Biology
Related Links:
| Difference Between Endoskeleton And Exoskeleton | Difference Between Endoskeleton And Exoskeleton |
| Difference Between Bone And Cartilage | Difference-between-sensory-and-motor-neurons |
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