Which layer of the skin is located second deepest and contains blood vessels and nerves?

The layer of the skin that is located second deepest and contains blood vessels and nerves is the dermis. The dermis lies directly beneath the outer epidermis and above the hypodermis (or subcutaneous layer). Its structure is rich in connective tissue, which provides strength and elasticity to the skin.

Within the dermis, you will find not only blood vessels, which supply nutrients and oxygen to the skin, but also a network of nerves that help transmit sensations such as touch, pain, and temperature. This complex architecture allows the dermis to play a critical role in protecting the body and facilitating communication with the nervous system.

The hypodermis, often referred to as the subcutaneous layer, is actually the deepest layer and primarily consists of fatty tissue that insulates the body and stores energy. The stratum basale, on the other hand, is the deepest part of the epidermis but does not contain blood vessels or nerves; it is primarily where new skin cells are generated. Therefore, the dermis is correctly identified as the layer meeting the criteria given in the question.