Stratum corneum lipid bilayers and extracellular lamellar structures (SC lipid lamellae)

The stratum corneum lipid bilayers and extracellular lamellar structures constitute the primary physical and chemical barrier of the human skin. Located in the intercellular spaces of the outermost epidermal layer, these structures are composed of a unique mixture of ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids organized into highly ordered crystalline and liquid-crystalline phases (van Smeden et al., 2014, PMID: 24656726). Their primary biological function is to prevent excessive transepidermal water loss and protect the body from environmental insults, including pathogens and chemical toxins (Elias, 2005, PMID: 15930091). In various dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, the composition and organization of these lipids are significantly altered, leading to barrier dysfunction and inflammation (Bouwstra et al., 2006, PMID: 16918563). Therapeutic interventions often target these structures by supplying exogenous physiological lipids to restore barrier integrity or by using chemical enhancers to temporarily disrupt the bilayers for improved drug delivery. Understanding the molecular arrangement of these lamellae is crucial for developing effective topical treatments and transdermal delivery systems.

Other names

Skin barrier lipidsIntercellular lipid matrixExtracellular lamellar membranesStratum corneum lipid matrixSkin lipid bilayers

Restoration of the lipid barrier through replenishment of physiological lipids (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids) or temporary fluidization of the lipid bilayer to enhance the penetration of other pharmacological agents.