Water Retention in Stratum Corneum (N/A)

Water retention in the stratum corneum (SC) refers to the ability of this outermost layer of the skin to maintain adequate hydration, which is essential for skin barrier function, flexibility, and overall health. The SC achieves water retention through a combination of structural proteins, intercellular lipids, and hygroscopic molecules. Key components include intercellular lipids (ceramides, cholesterol, cholesterol esters), Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), corneocytes, and Aquaporin-3. Disruption or deficiency in these components can lead to impaired hydration and skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. Moisturizers work by supplementing these natural systems.

Other names

SC hydrationStratum Corneum HydrationSkin barrier functionTransepidermal water loss regulation

Occlusives form surface film reducing evaporation; humectants mimic NMF action; topical ceramide supplementation restores lipid balance.