Final answer:
The statement is False. The outermost waterproof layer of the epidermis is the stratum corneum, not the stratum lucidum. The stratum corneum consists of dead keratinocytes that provide a waterproof barrier.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the tough layer of waterproof material that makes up the outermost part of the epidermis is the stratum lucidum is False. The correct layer that forms the waterproof, protective barrier of the skin is the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum is composed of dead keratinocytes that are full of keratin, a tough, fibrous protein that makes the surface of the skin durable and waterproof. These cells are constantly being shed from the skin's surface and replaced by new cells moving up from lower layers. In contrast, the stratum lucidum is situated below the stratum corneum and is a thin, translucent layer found only in the thick skin of the palms, soles, and digits.