Which layer of the skin contains collagen and elastin fibers?

The dermis is the layer of the skin that contains collagen and elastin fibers, which are essential for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. Collagen provides strength and resilience, helping the skin withstand stretching and other forms of mechanical stress, while elastin allows the skin to return to its original shape after being stretched or contracted. This layer is situated beneath the epidermis and above the hypodermis, containing a rich supply of blood vessels, hair follicles, and nerve endings, contributing to overall skin health and functionality.

In contrast, the epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes and does not contain these fibers; it serves mainly as a protective barrier. The hypodermis, which lies beneath the dermis, consists of loose connective tissue and fat but is not where collagen and elastin are found. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis and is made up of dead skin cells, further emphasizing that the structures responsible for skin strength and elasticity are indeed located within the dermis.