Which epidermal layer is the most superficial?

Which epidermal layer is the most superficial?

• A. Stratum Corneum
• B. Stratum Basale
• C. Stratum Granulosum
• D. Stratum Lucidum

Answer: (A)

The outermost epidermal layer is the Stratum Corneum, the protective barrier made of flat, keratin-filled dead cells that continuously shed and are replaced from below. This layer sits on the surface, shielding the body from microbes and reducing water loss. The deeper layers include the Stratum Basale, where new cells are produced; the Stratum Granulosum, where keratinization begins and cells flatten; and, in certain areas of thick skin, the Stratum Lucidum between Granulosum and Corneum. In PMU work, pigment is placed in the dermis rather than the epidermis because the Stratum Corneum is shed and renews, which would cause pigment to fade quickly if deposited there.

The outermost epidermal layer is the Stratum Corneum, the protective barrier made of flat, keratin-filled dead cells that continuously shed and are replaced from below. This layer sits on the surface, shielding the body from microbes and reducing water loss. The deeper layers include the Stratum Basale, where new cells are produced; the Stratum Granulosum, where keratinization begins and cells flatten; and, in certain areas of thick skin, the Stratum Lucidum between Granulosum and Corneum. In PMU work, pigment is placed in the dermis rather than the epidermis because the Stratum Corneum is shed and renews, which would cause pigment to fade quickly if deposited there.