• Stratum Corneum (horny layer) - This layer of fully mature keratinocytes which contain fibrous proteins (keratins). The outermost layer is continuously shed. The stratum corneum prevents the entry of most foreign substances as well as the loss of fluid from the body.
• Keratinocytes (squamous cells) - This layer, just beneath the stratum corneum, contains living keratinocytes, which mature and form the stratum corneum.
• Basal Layer - The basal layer is the deepest layer of the epidermis, containing basal cells. Basal cells continually divide, forming new keratinocytes, replacing the old ones that are shed from the skin's surface.

The epidermis also contains melanocytes, which are cells that produce melanin (skin pigment).

• blood vessels
• lymph vessels
• hair follicles
• sweat glands
• collagen bundles
• fibroblasts
• nerves

The dermis is held together by a protein called collagen, made by fibroblasts. This layer also contains pain and touch receptors.