What characterizes the reticular dermis layer of the skin?

The reticular dermis is a crucial layer of the skin that lies beneath the epidermis and above the subcutaneous layer. Its defining feature is the presence of a dense network of collagen fibers and connective tissue, which provide structural support, strength, and elasticity to the skin. This layer is significantly thicker than the papillary dermis, which is the upper part of the dermis, and is primarily responsible for the skin's durability and the ability to withstand stress.

Moreover, the reticular dermis also contains other important structures such as blood vessels, lymphatics, hair follicles, and various glands (like sebaceous and sweat glands), which play essential roles in thermoregulation and sensory perception. This complexity further emphasizes the importance of the reticular dermis in skin health and function, contrasting sharply with options that suggest a lack of structures or the presence of fat cells exclusively.