Stratum Corneum
Pronunciation: STRAY-tum kor-NEE-um
The outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of anucleate corneocytes embedded in lipids, which serves as the primary barrier targeted by many cosmetic procedures.
Full Definition
The stratum corneum is the superficial-most layer of the skin and the first target of topical cosmetic dermatology interventions. It consists of dead, flattened corneocytes held in a lipid matrix, forming a physical and chemical barrier against external agents. In editorial contexts, the term is always rendered as two words, lower case unless starting a sentence, and should not be abbreviated. Writers frequently confuse it with the dermis, which lies deeper. Understanding its depth is critical when editing discussions of penetration depth for active ingredients or superficial peels.
Usage
Usage note: Always lower case in running text; do not abbreviate to 'SC' in consumer-facing copy.
In Context
- "Superficial chemical exfoliants act primarily on the stratum corneum without penetrating the viable epidermis." — Patient information leaflet
- "The manuscript incorrectly described the stratum corneum as a living tissue layer, a factual error the editor flagged for correction." — Peer-review checklist