Which layers of the skin is associated with superficial peeling and exfoliation?

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, and it plays a key role in the processes of peeling and exfoliation. This layer is composed of dead skin cells that are continuously shed and replaced. When superficial peeling and exfoliation treatments are performed, they typically target the stratum corneum to remove these dead cells, promoting a smoother and brighter appearance of the skin beneath.

Maintaining the health of the stratum corneum is vital in esthetics, as it serves as a barrier protecting deeper layers of the skin from environmental damage, and contributes to the skin’s overall texture and tone. Many esthetic procedures, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion, focus on this layer to stimulate cell turnover and enhance the skin's surface.

The other layers mentioned in the choices play different roles in the skin's structure and function that do not specifically relate to superficial peeling or exfoliation. For example, the dermis lies beneath the epidermis and contains connective tissue, hair follicles, and glands, influencing skin strength and elasticity rather than the topmost exfoliation process. The epidermis encompasses all layers above the dermis, including the stratum corneum, but discussing the specific function in terms of