Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

The term for the "dead" cells located in the stratum corneum is corneocytes. These cells are essentially flattened, dead keratinocytes that have lost their nuclei and are fully keratinized. They form the outermost layer of the skin, serving as a protective barrier against environmental factors such as pathogens, chemicals, and moisture loss. Corneocytes play a crucial role in maintaining the skin's integrity and overall health, as they help to prevent transepidermal water loss and protect underlying living cells. This layer is essential for skin hydration and maintaining a balance in the skin’s barrier function. In contrast, Langerhans cells are immune cells found within the epidermis that play a role in the skin's defense mechanism. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, which gives color to the skin and protects against UV radiation. Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response, not related to skin structure. Understanding these distinctions highlights the unique functions of various skin cells and their importance in skin health.