Which layer of skin contains blood vessels and nerve endings, as well as the oil and sweat glands?

The dermis is the layer of skin that contains blood vessels, nerve endings, oil glands, and sweat glands. This layer lies beneath the epidermis and is responsible for providing structural support and elasticity to the skin due to the presence of collagen and elastin fibers. The blood vessels found in the dermis play a crucial role in regulating temperature and supplying nutrients to the skin, while the nerve endings are essential for sensing touch, pain, and temperature. Additionally, the oil glands help maintain skin hydration and barrier function, whereas the sweat glands are involved in thermoregulation and waste excretion.

The epidermis, in contrast, is the outermost layer of skin and primarily consists of keratinized cells that provide a protective barrier. It does not contain blood vessels or nerve endings. The subcutaneous layer and hypodermis refer to the same area located beneath the dermis, primarily consisting of fat and connective tissue that serves as insulation and energy storage, but lacks the complex structures found in the dermis. Therefore, the dermis is the correct answer as it encompasses all of these important functions and structures.