NIC Esthetician Written ExamScientific ConceptsEasy
Which of the following describes the anatomical relationship of the epidermis to the dermis?
- AThe epidermis lies superficial to the dermis.
- BThe epidermis is lateral to the dermis.
- CThe epidermis lies deep to the dermis.
- DThe epidermis is medial to the dermis.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The epidermis lies superficial to the dermis.
The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, meaning it is superficial to the dermis, which lies beneath it.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Lateral refers to being farther from the midline, which is not applicable to the vertical relationship of skin layers.
- C. Deep to means beneath, which is incorrect; the dermis is deep to the epidermis.
- D. Medial refers to being closer to the midline, also not applicable to the vertical relationship of skin layers.
Skin Layers (Epidermis & Dermis)
The skin consists of two main layers: the superficial epidermis and the deeper dermis.
- Epidermis is the outermost layer
- Dermis is beneath the epidermis
- Hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue) is beneath the dermis
Memory trick: E for 'Exterior' (Epidermis), D for 'Deep' (Dermis).