Dermis: the papillary and reticular layers of the skin
Quick facts
- Definition
- Skin layer between the epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue, rich in collagen, elastin, vessels, and nerves.
- Division
- Papillary dermis (superficial, looser) and reticular dermis (deep, denser).
- Cells
- Fibroblasts, which produce collagen and elastin.
- Relevance in facial harmonization
- Basis of skin firmness; the target of biostimulators, microneedling, and skin boosters.
The dermis is the layer of skin located between the epidermis, above, and the subcutaneous tissue, below. It is the layer that gives the skin strength, elasticity, and nourishment, because it houses blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and glands, along with a dense network of fibers.
How is the dermis divided?
| Layer | Position | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Papillary | Just below the epidermis | Thin and loose, with many capillaries; forms the undulations that interlock with the epidermis (dermal-epidermal junction) |
| Reticular | Deeper | Thick and dense, with coarse bundles of collagen and elastic fibers |
The connection between the dermis and the epidermis is the dermal-epidermal junction, which flattens with age and reduces nutrient exchange.
What is inside it?
The structure of the dermis is the extracellular matrix: collagen, which provides strength (see collagen types I and III); elastin, which returns the skin to its shape after stretching; and water-retaining substances, such as natural hyaluronic acid. The cells that maintain all of this are the fibroblasts.
Why does it matter in facial harmonization?
With age and sun exposure, the dermis loses collagen and elastin, the skin thins, and lines set in, forming static wrinkles. Several skin treatments act at this level:
- microneedling and lasers, which stimulate repair;
- collagen biostimulators, which activate fibroblasts;
- skin boosters, which hydrate the skin from within.
Frequently asked questions
What is the dermis?
It is the layer of skin just below the epidermis. It contains collagen, elastin, blood vessels, nerves, and glands, and gives the skin firmness and elasticity.
What is the difference between the papillary and reticular dermis?
The papillary layer is the most superficial, thin and loose, with many capillaries. The reticular layer is deeper, thick and dense, with collagen fibers organized in bundles.