Stratum corneum lipid content

The **stratum corneum lipid content** refers to the specific composition and amount of lipids in the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum). This lipid matrix is primarily composed of ceramides (~50% by mass), cholesterol (~25%), and free fatty acids (~10–20%), organized into lamellar bilayers and phases that are essential for the integrity of the skin’s permeability barrier[4][7]. The balance and structure of these lipids prevent excessive water loss, block entry of microbes, allergens, and chemicals, and maintain skin hydration[3][5][6]. Defective or altered SC lipid composition is implicated in several dermatological diseases, particularly those involving barrier dysfunction such as atopic dermatitis[6]. Restoration and modulation of SC lipid content is the aim of several topical dermatological treatments[2][5]. The term represents a physicochemical and biochemical property of skin tissue, not a discrete target molecule such as a protein, enzyme, receptor, or transporter[1][2][3][4]. Thus, "stratum corneum lipid content" is not a canonical drug target but a tissue property or biomarker.

Other names

Stratum corneum lipidsSC lipid compositionEpidermal lipid barrierStratum corneum extracellular lipids

Restoration of lipid balance; Enhancement of skin barrier function.