Keratinocytes

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, serving as a protective barrier against environmental threats. This article examines the anatomical structure of the epidermis, detailing its five distinct layers—stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum, and stratum corneum—along with key cellular components like keratinocytes and Merkel cells, as illustrated in a comprehensive diagram. By exploring the structure and physical characteristics of the epidermis, we uncover its essential role in safeguarding the body and maintaining skin integrity.

The image titled "Skin Pigmentation Diagram" illustrates the role of melanin in determining skin color, comparing the cellular structure of dark and light skin. Located in the epidermis, melanocytes produce melanin, which is then taken up by keratinocytes, influencing the skin’s pigmentation. This diagram highlights the distribution and density of melanin across different skin tones, offering insight into the biological basis of skin color variation. This article explores the mechanisms of skin pigmentation, the anatomical role of the epidermis, and the physiological processes that regulate melanin production.