Final answer:
The stratum corneum is another term for the protective, outermost layer of the skin's epidermis, comprised of dead keratin-rich cells that are continuously shed and replaced.
Step-by-step explanation:
Another word for the layer of skin known as the stratum corneum is the protective, waterproof layer of dead cells on the skin's surface. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis and consists of 15 to 30 layers of dead cells which are rich in keratin. This layer is regularly shed and continuously replaced by new cells from the underlying stratum granulosum (or stratum lucidum in certain areas). The entire stratum corneum is replaced approximately every 4 weeks. Common cosmetic procedures like microdermabrasion target this layer to maintain a 'fresh' and healthy skin appearance.