What is the main function of the stratum corneum layer of the skin?

The primary function of the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis, is to act as a protective barrier against environmental damage. This layer consists of dead skin cells that have undergone a process called keratinization, which makes them tough and resistant to abrasion. The stratum corneum serves to prevent water loss from the underlying layers of skin and protects against pathogens, chemical exposure, and physical injuries. Its role in maintaining skin hydration and integrity is vital to overall skin health.

While regulating temperature and providing sensation are important functions of the skin, they primarily occur in deeper layers such as the dermis. Melanin production takes place in the melanocytes located within the basal layer of the epidermis, rather than in the stratum corneum. Thus, the function of the stratum corneum is specifically centered on providing a robust barrier to environmental factors, which is key to maintaining the skin's overall functionality and health.