Which skin layer is often referred to as the "true skin"?

The dermis is often referred to as the "true skin" because it is the layer of skin that provides strength, flexibility, and structure, directly supporting the epidermis above it. This layer contains connective tissue, blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and glands, all of which play crucial roles in overall skin health and function. The dermis acts as the main structural framework of the skin, housing essential components that help in thermoregulation, sensation, and the overall health of the skin.

In contrast, the epidermis, which is the outermost layer, primarily serves as a protective barrier and lacks blood vessels; it does not offer the same structural support as the dermis. The hypodermis, located beneath the dermis, is more involved with fat storage and insulation rather than skin structure, while the stratum basale is just one layer within the epidermis responsible for skin cell production. Hence, the designation of the dermis as the "true skin" highlights its primary role in providing the functional and structural integrity of the skin.