THE DERMIS

The dermis is a thicker, tougher, more elastic and complex layer than the epidermis.  Because the dermis is composed of living cells, it must receive oxygen and nutrients from the capillaries.  It also contains millions of nerve endings, making it a useful sense organ.

GLANDS

Sweat glands help the body to get rid of excess water salt, and wastes such as urea.  These substances form a liquid called perspiration or sweat.  Not only does this help the body to get rid of wastes but also to control temperature cooling the body.  (10 liters of sweat in 24 hours)
Oil glands keep the skin soft and prevent hair from becoming brittle.  Your hair and nails are formed from specialized dead skin cells.

NERVES

The skin also acts as a sense organ.  Nerve endings in the skin make you sensitive to hot, cold, pain, and pressure.  One area of the body containing a large number of nerve endings are the fingertips.