Which skin layer contains sensory receptors for touch and pressure?

The dermis is the skin layer that contains sensory receptors for touch and pressure. This layer is situated beneath the epidermis and is composed of connective tissue, which houses a variety of structures including blood vessels, hair follicles, and nerve endings. The nerve endings in the dermis are responsible for detecting tactile sensations, allowing the body to sense pressure, vibration, and light touch.

The epidermis, while it contributes to the overall protective function of the skin, does not contain the necessary nerve endings for these sensory modalities. The subcutaneous layer, although important for insulation and cushioning, primarily consists of fat and connective tissue, serving a different role in skin function rather than sensory perception. The stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis, is made up of dead cells and does not contain sensory receptors either. Thus, the dermis is critical for touch and pressure sensation, making it the correct answer to the question.