Final answer:
The stratum corneum is responsible for water resistance in the epidermis by providing a barrier of dead, keratinized cells that prevent water loss and offer protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The layer of the epidermis responsible for water resistance is the stratum corneum. This layer is the most superficial layer of the epidermis and is exposed to the outside environment. It consists of 15 to 30 layers of dead keratinized cells that offer a barrier against the penetration of microbes, dehydration of underlying tissues, and mechanical abrasion.
The cells in the stratum corneum are periodically shed and replaced by new cells pushed up from the stratum granulosum, which undergoes keratinization and forms a waterproof barrier with a water-repelling glycolipid. The process is a continuous cycle that takes about 4 weeks for the entire layer to be replaced, contributing to the skin's ability to maintain its hydration levels and protect the body.