The skin contains two main layers: the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the superficial layer that makes up the surface of the skin. It is composed of skin cells. The thickness of the epidermis varies, according to location: it is very thick over the soles of the feet, and very thin over the ears.

The dermis lies beneath the epidermis. The dermis contains blood vessels, nerves, sweat glands, and hair follicles. The number of structures in the dermis varies, according to location: the dermis under the arms contain more sweat glands and hair follicles than the dermis on the back.

Below the dermis is the subcutaneous layer. The subcutaneous layer is mainly fat.

Examples:

• Skin anatomy