Final answer:
The most superficial layer of the skin is the stratum corneum, which consists of dry, dead cells that protect the underlying layers of skin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most superficial layer of the skin is the stratum corneum. It is the outermost layer of the epidermis and is responsible for protecting the underlying layers of skin. The stratum corneum consists of dry, dead cells that are continuously shed and replaced.