Stratum corneum lipid membranes (SC lipid membranes)

The stratum corneum lipid membranes constitute the primary physical and chemical barrier of the human skin, residing in the extracellular spaces between corneocytes [1]. These membranes are uniquely composed of an equimolar mixture of ceramides, cholesterol, and long-chain free fatty acids, which organize into highly ordered, crystalline lamellar phases [2]. Their principal biological function is to prevent excessive transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and to shield the body from exogenous substances, pathogens, and UV radiation [3]. In various dermatological diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, the lipid composition and organization are significantly altered, leading to a compromised barrier and increased sensitivity [4]. Pharmacological intervention typically involves the topical application of physiological lipids to repair the barrier or the use of chemical penetration enhancers that modulate lipid fluidity to facilitate the delivery of systemic or local therapeutics [5]. Sources: [1] Bouwstra et al., 2006 (PubMed); [2] StatPearls, Skin Barrier Function; [3] Journal of Investigative Dermatology; [4] Journal of Lipid Research; [5] International Journal of Pharmaceutics.

Other names

Skin barrier lipidsIntercellular lipid lamellaeEpidermal lipidsStratum corneum extracellular matrixSkin lipid barrier

Restoration of the lipid lamellar structure to improve barrier function (barrier repair therapy) or temporary fluidization and disruption of the lipid bilayer to enhance transdermal drug delivery (penetration enhancement) [1, 5].