What is the outermost layer of skin called?

• A. Stratum corneum
• B. Dermis
• C. Epidermis
• D. Hypodermis

Answer: (B)

The outermost layer of skin is the epidermis. Skin has three main layers: epidermis on the outside, dermis beneath it, and the hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue) deepest. The epidermis serves as the protective barrier that interfaces with the outside environment.

Within the epidermis, the outermost sublayer is the stratum corneum. It’s made up of dead, flattened keratinocytes that form a tough, waterproof barrier. So while stratum corneum is the topmost part of the epidermis, it’s not the outermost layer of the skin as a whole—the epidermis is.

In practical terms for massage, you work on the surface layers without penetrating deeper than the dermis, since the epidermis is avascular and relies on the underlying dermis for nourishment.