What is the outer layer of the skin called?

The outer layer of the skin is known as the epidermis. This layer serves as the body's first line of defense against the external environment, providing a protective barrier that prevents pathogens and environmental hazards from entering the body. The epidermis is composed primarily of keratinocytes, which produce keratin, a tough protein that helps strengthen the skin.

The epidermis also plays a critical role in the process of skin renewal, as it constantly sheds dead skin cells and replaces them with new ones generated from the deeper layers. It contains melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin, contributing to skin color and providing some protection against UV radiation.

Understanding the structure and function of the epidermis is essential in the context of laser hair removal, as lasers target hair follicles located within the dermis, just beneath the epidermis. Knowledge of the skin's layers is crucial for effectively and safely conducting laser hair removal procedures.