What is the name of the outermost layer of the epidermis that protects against foreign substances?

The outermost layer of the epidermis, known as the stratum corneum, plays a crucial role in protecting the skin against foreign substances, including bacteria, pathogens, and environmental toxins. This layer consists of dead skin cells that are tightly packed and contain keratin, a protein that provides additional strength and durability. The presence of keratin helps to waterproof the skin, preventing excessive water loss while also serving as a barrier against external factors.

As the outermost layer, the stratum corneum is continuously shed and replaced, allowing the skin to maintain its protective functions effectively. It is the first line of defense in the body’s integumentary system, ensuring that harmful agents are kept at bay while maintaining the overall health of the underlying layers of the skin.

In contrast, other layers of the epidermis serve different functions. For example, the stratum granulosum is involved in the process of keratinization and contributes to the moisture barrier, while the stratum spinosum is known for its role in providing strength and flexibility to the skin through the presence of desmosomes. The stratum basale is the deepest layer of the epidermis, primarily responsible for the generation of new skin cells.

Therefore, the stratum cor