Thick skin has five layers.
The Five Layers of Thick Skin's Epidermis
The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, is thicker in areas like the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, hence the term "thick skin." These areas possess all five epidermal strata:
- Stratum Basale: The deepest layer, responsible for cell production.
- Stratum Spinosum: A spiny layer with cells connected by desmosomes.
- Stratum Granulosum: A granular layer where cells begin to die.
- Stratum Lucidum: A clear layer only found in thick skin, providing extra protection.
- Stratum Corneum: The outermost, heavily keratinized layer providing a tough, waterproof barrier.
This layered structure provides exceptional protection against abrasion, dehydration, and infection. The presence of the stratum lucidum, absent in thin skin, is a key distinguishing feature of thick skin.
