The dermal papillae are small, |nipple|-like protrusions of the |dermis| that reach into the |epidermis|, bringing food and oxygen to the lower layers of epidermal cells. In addition, a |papilla| nourishes every |hair follicle|. Rows of papillae protruding from the |dermis| into the |epidermis| form ridges that create patterns on the skin of the hands, feet, and body. These papillary ridges on the fingertips are responsible for ~fingerprints~. These ridges develop sometime before birth. Not only is the pattern unique for each individual, but also it never changes except to grow larger.
