Final answer:
The human skin consists of two primary layers: the epidermis, which is the outermost layer, and the dermis, situated below it. The hypodermis or subcutaneous tissue lies beneath the dermis. The skin is vital for protection, temperature regulation, and sensation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Composition of Human Skin:
The human skin is a complex organ composed of several layers. The most superficial layer is the epidermis, which consists of closely packed epithelial cells. Below the epidermis is the dermis, which is made of dense, irregular connective tissue containing a range of structures such as blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and more. Beneath the dermis lies the hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous tissue, primarily comprised of loose connective and fatty tissues. The epidermis and dermis are the two main layers integral to the function and structure of the skin.
Apart from providing a protective barrier, the human skin plays a vital role in the innate immune system. The dermis houses most of the skin's specialized structures and originates from this region. Collectively, these layers and the contained structures enable the skin to perform critical functions, including protection against microbial invasion, regulation of body temperature, and sensation.