What is the primary function of the dermis layer of skin?

The primary function of the dermis layer of skin is to support blood vessels and nerves. This layer lies beneath the epidermis and is composed of connective tissue which provides strength and elasticity to the skin. The dermis is richly vascularized, meaning it has a high concentration of blood vessels that supply nutrients to the skin and help regulate body temperature through blood flow. Additionally, the presence of nerve endings in the dermis allows for sensation, letting the body perceive touch, pressure, pain, and temperature changes.

While fat storage is a function associated with the subcutaneous layer (or hypodermis), and the absorption of nutrients primarily occurs in the epidermis through small blood vessels, these functions are not the role of the dermis. The dermis does contribute to the skin's ability to protect against infection by housing immune cells, but its key roles center around providing structural support and enabling sensory functions through its vascular and nerve-rich makeup.