Which layer of skin is primarily composed of connective tissue?

The dermis is the layer of skin primarily composed of connective tissue, which provides strength, elasticity, and structural support to the skin. It is located beneath the epidermis and contains various structures such as blood vessels, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands, all embedded in a matrix of collagen and elastin fibers. This connective tissue layer plays a crucial role in anchoring the epidermis above it and supports the skin's overall integrity.

In contrast, the epidermis is primarily made up of epithelial cells, specifically keratinocytes, and lacks the connective tissue components that characterize the dermis. The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, consists mainly of adipose tissue and loose connective tissue, which serves to insulate the body and anchor the skin to underlying structures but is not strictly considered part of the skin itself. The stratum basale is a specific layer within the epidermis that contains stem cells responsible for new cell generation but does not represent an entire layer of connective tissue.