Oregon Written Tattoo Practice Test

Which skin layer is located above the dermis?

1. Hypodermis

2. Epidermis

3. Subcutaneous layer

4. Keratin layer

The correct answer is: Epidermis

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, positioned directly above the dermis. It serves as the first line of defense for the body, providing a protective barrier against environmental toxins, pathogens, and physical abrasions. The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes, which produce keratin, a protein that helps in waterproofing the skin. Understanding the distinct layers of the skin is crucial in tattooing, as each layer has a different role in skin health and healing. Knowledge of where the needle penetrates is vital for effective tattoo application, ensuring that the ink is deposited in the correct part of the skin for optimal results. The other choices reflect different layers or terms related to the skin but do not accurately describe the layer directly above the dermis. The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, lies beneath the dermis and serves more as a cushion and energy reserve, while the keratin layer refers specifically to a component of the epidermis rather than being a distinct layer itself.