Which skin layer provides strength and elasticity due to dense irregular connective tissue?

• A. Epidermis
• B. Dermis
• C. Hypodermis
• D. Stratum corneum

Answer: (B)

Strength and elasticity of the skin come from the dermis. This layer is made of dense irregular connective tissue, with collagen fibers woven in many directions to resist tension from every angle. That irregular arrangement gives the skin its overall strength, while the presence of elastic fibers lets it stretch and snap back. The epidermis above it is mainly a protective epithelial surface, not a connective tissue layer, and the hypodermis beneath is primarily fat and looser connective tissue that provides padding and insulation rather than the dense, directional strength of the dermis. The outermost stratum corneum is the dead-cell layer of the epidermis, not a source of tensile strength.