Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to or existing on or affecting the skin: Pertaining to the skin, its layers, or conditions that involve it.
   • Of or relating to or located in the dermis: Specifically concerning the dermis, the thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis.
   • Of or relating to a cuticle or cuticula: Pertaining to the outer protective layer, especially of a plant or invertebrate.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The doctor prescribed a dermal cream for the rash. (The doctor prescribed a skin-related cream for the rash.)
  • A dermal biopsy can help diagnose the condition. (A biopsy of the skin layer can help diagnose the condition.)
  • The insect's dermal layer provides protection. (The insect's outer cuticular layer provides protection.)

Advanced Usage

• Dermal absorption: The process by which substances pass through the skin.
  • The study focused on the dermal absorption of the chemical.
• Dermal papilla: A small, nipple-like extension of the dermis into the epidermis.
  • Hair follicles are associated with dermal papillae.

Variants and Related Words

• Dermic (adj): A less common variant with the same meaning as 'dermal'.
  • The dermic application was effective.
• Dermis (n): The thick layer of skin beneath the epidermis.
  • The dermis contains blood vessels and nerves.
• Epidermal (adj): Relating to the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin.
  • This is an epidermal issue, not a dermal one.

Synonyms

• Cutaneous: Relating to or affecting the skin.
• Integumentary: Relating to the skin or outer covering of an organism.

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Dermal filler: A substance injected into the skin to reduce wrinkles.
  • She received a dermal filler treatment.
• Dermal patch: A medicated adhesive patch applied to the skin.
  • The nicotine dermal patch helps people quit smoking.

Adjective

1. relating to or existing on or affecting the skin
   • cutaneous nerves
   • a cutaneous infection
2. of or relating to or located in the dermis
3. of or relating to a cuticle or cuticula