Question

As a student in an esthetic program, Hannah is tasked with building a three-dimensional model of the layers of the skin. Her model must include captions describing each skin layer and connect skin histology and physiology to esthetics. Hannah visits a craft store to purchase supplies from which she will construct her model.

Hannah pays particular attention to her modeling of the stratum _____, the outermost layer of the epidermis, and the layer that is of primary concern to estheticians.

a) Lucidum
b) Spinosum
c) Granulosum
d) Corneum

Answer 1

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, essential for estheticians due to its role in skin protection and aesthetics through procedures like microdermabrasion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stratum Corneum: The Primary Concern for Estheticians

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, which is of primary importance to estheticians. It consists of dead cells that shed periodically and its primary function is to provide protection against the environment by preventing the penetration of microbes and dehydration of underlying tissues. Estheticians focus on the stratum corneum for various cosmetic procedures, such as microdermabrasion, to keep the skin looking fresh and healthy by removing some of the dry upper layers.

The stratum corneum acts as a barrier with its increased keratinization, often referred to as cornification. This layer is composed of 15 to 30 layers of cells and is replaced over a period of about four weeks. The continuous renewal process is essential for the protection and aesthetic appearance of the skin.