ABSTRACT
The dermis is a fibrous layer which supports and strengthens the epidermis. It ranges from 2-3 mm thick and in man constitutes between 15% to 20% of the total body weight. The dermis consists of a matrix of loose connective tissue composed of fibrous protein collagen, embedded in an amorphous ground substance. The ground substance consists primarily of water, ions, and complex carbohydrates such as glycosaminoglycans that are attached to proteins (proteoglycans). The ground substance helps to hold the cells of the tissue together and allows oxygen and nutrients to diffuse through the tissue to cells.
