Question

As a student in an esthetic program, Hannah is tasked with building a three-dimensional model of the layers of the skin. Her model must include captions describing each skin layer and connect skin histology and physiology to esthetics. Hannah visits a craft store to purchase supplies from which she will construct her model.

Hannah uses materials of two different colors to simulate _____, the main components of the dermal connective tissue.

A) Fibroblasts
B) Collagen and elastin
C) Keratinocytes
D) Langerhans cells

Answer 1

Hannah is creating a model of the skin's dermal layer using two colors to represent collagen and elastin, which provide the skin with strength and elasticity. These components are produced by fibroblasts and form the papillary and reticular layers of the dermis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hannah uses materials of two different colors to simulate collagen and elastin, the main components of the dermal connective tissue. These two proteins are crucial for providing the dermis with its strength and elasticity. Collagen fibers contribute to the toughness of the skin, while elastin fibers allow the skin to stretch and recoil.

In constructing her model, Hannah should represent the dermis as composed of two layers: the papillary layer, which is the topmost part characterized by dermal papillae extending into the epidermis, and the reticular layer, which is below the papillary layer and contains dense bundles of collagen fibers. These fibers, produced by fibroblasts, form an interconnected mesh that is essential for the structural integrity and resilience of the skin. A good understanding of skin histology is important in esthetics for various skin treatments and therapies.