B. The hypodermis, also called the superficial fascia, is subcutaneous tissue beneath the skin
consisting mostly of adipose tissue that anchors the skin to underlying muscle, allows
skin to slide over muscle, and acts as a shock absorber and insulator (p. 151; Fig. 5.1).
C. Epidermis (pp. 151–154; Fig. 5.2)
1. The epidermis is a keratinized stratified squamous epithelium that consists of four cell
types, arranged in four to five layers.
2. Cells of the Epidermis
3. Layers of the Epidermis
a. The stratum basale (basal layer) is the deepest epidermal layer and is the site of
mitosis.
b. The stratum spinosum (prickly layer) is several cell layers thick and contains
keratinocytes, melanin granules, and the highest concentration of dendritic cells.
D. Dermis (pp. 154–156; Figs. 5.3–5.4)
1. The dermis is composed of strong, flexible connective tissue and is well supplied with
blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels.
2. The dermis is made up of two layers: the thin, superficial papillary layer that forms
II. Appendages of the Skin (pp. 157–162; Figs. 5.5–5.7)
A. Hairs and Hair Follicles (pp. 158–160; Fig. 5.5)
1. Hairs, or pili, are flexible strands produced by hair follicles that consist of dead,
keratinized cells.
a. The main regions of a hair are the shaft, which projects from the skin, and the root,