NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
The outermost layer of the skin, which forms a protective barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and water loss, is known as the:
- ADermis
- BHypodermis
- CSubcutaneous tissue
- DEpidermis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Epidermis
The epidermis is the outermost protective layer of the skin. It acts as the primary barrier against external factors and prevents excessive water loss. The dermis is the layer beneath the epidermis, and the subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is the deepest layer, primarily composed of fat.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The dermis is the middle layer of the skin, containing nerves, blood vessels, and glands.
- B. Hypodermis is another name for subcutaneous tissue, the deepest layer.
- C. Subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is the innermost layer, primarily fat and connective tissue.
Epidermis
The outermost protective layer of the skin, composed primarily of keratinocytes.
- Provides a barrier against pathogens and environmental damage.
- Prevents water loss.
- Contains no blood vessels (avascular).
Memory trick: Eat Delicious Skin, but only the Epidermis is on top.