Arkansas Esthetician Practice Exam

What does the stratum corneum consist of?

1. Adipose tissue

2. Hardened cornified horny cells

3. Muscle tissue

4. Fibroblast cells

The correct answer is: Hardened cornified horny cells

The stratum corneum is a protective outer layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. This layer is made up of flattened, hardened, cornified horny cells that provide a waterproof barrier to protect the skin underneath. While adipose tissue, muscle tissue, and fibroblast cells are all important components of the skin, they are not part of the stratum corneum and therefore not the correct answer. Adipose tissue is a type of fat tissue that helps insulate and cushion the body. Muscle tissue is responsible for movement and support in the body. Fibroblast cells produce collagen, a protein that gives skin its structure and elasticity. These are all important roles in maintaining healthy skin, but they do not make up the stratum corneum.