Barber Practice State Board Practice Exam

Which layer of the epidermis is the outermost?

1. Stratum Granulosum

2. Stratum Lucidum

3. Stratum Corneum

4. Stratum Basale

The correct answer is: Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis is the Stratum Corneum. This layer consists of dead keratinized cells that form a tough protective barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and moisture loss. The cells in the Stratum Corneum are continuously shed and replaced, which is essential for maintaining skin health. In the context of the other layers, the Stratum Granulosum is located beneath the Stratum Corneum and is where keratinocytes undergo further maturation and begin to die, while the Stratum Lucidum is primarily found in thick skin areas such as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, providing an additional layer of protection. The Stratum Basale is the deepest layer of the epidermis, where new skin cells are generated through mitosis. Each layer plays a vital role in the overall function of the skin, but the Stratum Corneum is key for forming the first line of defense.