Which layer of the skin is primarily responsible for sensation?

The dermis is primarily responsible for sensation due to its rich network of sensory receptors and nerve endings. This layer of the skin, located beneath the epidermis, contains various types of receptors that are sensitive to touch, pressure, temperature, and pain. These specialized nerve endings, such as Meissner's corpuscles for light touch and Pacinian corpuscles for deep pressure, transmit sensory information to the brain, enabling the perception of different stimuli.

In contrast, the epidermis mainly serves as a protective barrier, while the hypodermis functions primarily in insulation and energy storage rather than sensation. The mesoderm, although essential in embryonic development for forming various tissues, does not have a direct role in the adult body's sensory functions related to the skin layers. Thus, the dermis stands out as the key layer involved in the sensation process.