What is the outer layer of the skin?

• A. Epidermis
• B. Dermis
• C. Hypodermis
• D. Subcutaneous

Answer: (A)

The outermost layer of the skin is the epidermis, a protective barrier formed by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. It consists of several sublayers, from the basal layer where cells divide to replace shed surface cells, up to the outermost dead cell layer that shields underlying tissues. This layer is avascular, meaning it lacks blood vessels, so nutrients diffuse upward from the underlying dermis. Located beneath it, the dermis provides structural support with connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and skin appendages. The deeper hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue) contains fat and loose connective tissue, helping insulate and cushion.