What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
skin
Example
She has sensitive skin that easily gets sunburned. [skin: noun]
Example
The apple's skin was shiny and smooth. [skin: noun]
dermis
Example
The tattoo artist injected ink into the dermis layer of the skin. [dermis: noun]
Example
The dermis of a shark is much thicker than that of a human. [dermis: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Skin is a more common word than dermis and is used in everyday language to refer to the outer layer of the body or the surface of an object. Dermis is a more technical term used primarily in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between skin and dermis?
Dermis is a more formal term than skin and is typically used in scientific or medical contexts. Skin is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
