What is the correct order of skin layers from outermost to innermost?

• A. Epidermis, Dermis, Hypodermis (Subcutaneous)
• B. Dermis, Epidermis, Hypodermis
• C. Hypodermis, Dermis, Epidermis
• D. Epidermis, Hypodermis, Dermis

Answer: (A)

From outermost to innermost, the skin layers are the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue). The epidermis forms the protective barrier against the environment and is avascular, getting nutrients from the underlying dermis. The dermis lies beneath it and provides strength and elasticity through collagen and elastin, while housing blood vessels, nerves, sweat and oil glands, and hair follicles. The hypodermis sits deepest, mainly made of fat and connective tissue, helping cushion, insulate, and anchor the skin to underlying structures. This arrangement—epidermis on top, then dermis, then hypodermis—fits the functional roles of each layer. The other sequences would place these tissues in wrong order and don’t reflect how the skin is organized.