What is the outermost layer of skin?

The outermost layer of the skin is the epidermis. This layer serves several important functions, including providing a barrier to protect the underlying tissues from external factors such as pathogens, chemicals, and physical abrasions. It also plays a crucial role in the regulation of moisture and helps in the process of sensation through its various receptors.

The epidermis is composed of several sublayers, with the topmost layer being the stratum corneum, which consists of dead, flattened skin cells that are continuously shed and replaced. While the stratum corneum is a significant part of the epidermis, it is the epidermis as a whole that is recognized as the outer layer of skin. The dermis is located beneath the epidermis and contains connective tissue, hair follicles, and various glands, while the subcutaneous layer, also known as the hypodermis, lies beneath the dermis and contains fat and connective tissue.