The Dermis

The dermis might be considered the “core” of the integumentary system (derma– = “skin”), as distinct from the epidermis (epi– = “upon” or “over”) and hypodermis (hypo– = “below”).

The dermis also contains lymph channels that drain to deeper lymph nodes to help clear toxins, as well as little blood vessels that act as a transport system to allow nutrients to feed the skin.

The thickest layer of skin, the dermis is made up of cells that produce two proteins, collagen and elastin, that give your skin both strength and flexibility. The dermis also contains such important skin features as hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands that produce the oil (sebum) that keeps hair and skin lubricated.

The dermis also contains lymph channels that drain to deeper lymph nodes to help clear toxins, as well as little blood vessels that act as a transport system to allow nutrients to feed the skin.