Epidermal Water Retention (N/A)

Water retention in the epidermal layer, primarily within the stratum corneum, is a complex process essential for maintaining skin hydration, barrier function, and overall skin health. It involves the interplay of structural proteins (e.g., filaggrin), lipids (e.g., ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids), natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), and specialized transport proteins (e.g., aquaporin-3). The stratum corneum's 'brick-and-mortar' structure, NMF composition, intercellular lipid lamellae, and aquaporin activity all contribute to regulating transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and maintaining optimal hydration. Disruption of any of these components can lead to impaired barrier function and skin conditions like xerosis and atopic dermatitis. Therapeutic strategies often involve topical agents that enhance hydration, mimic lipid barriers, or promote endogenous NMF/lipid synthesis.

Other names

Skin HydrationStratum Corneum HydrationEpidermal Moisture

N/A