New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

Which layer of skin is primarily responsible for housing hair follicles and sweat glands?

1. The epidermis

2. The dermis

3. The hypodermis

4. The stratum corneum

The correct answer is: The dermis

The dermis is primarily responsible for housing hair follicles and sweat glands. This layer of skin is situated beneath the epidermis and contains connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and other structures that support the skin's function and health. Hair follicles originate in the dermis, and each follicle is associated with sebaceous (oil) glands, which are also found within this layer. Additionally, sweat glands, which play a critical role in thermoregulation and excretion, are embedded in the dermis. The epidermis, on the other hand, is the outermost layer of skin, primarily composed of keratinocytes that provide a protective barrier but does not host these structures. The hypodermis, or subcutaneous layer, lies beneath the dermis and primarily consists of fat and connective tissue, serving more for insulation and cushioning rather than housing hair follicles and sweat glands. The stratum corneum is the outermost component of the epidermis, composed of dead cells that provide a barrier but does not contain any follicles or glands.