What is the clear layer of the epidermis located just below the Stratum Corneum?

The clear layer of the epidermis located just below the Stratum Corneum is the Stratum Lucidum. This layer is found primarily in thicker skin areas, such as the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. The Stratum Lucidum consists of several layers of dead, flattened keratinocytes that provide an additional barrier and are characterized by their clear appearance, which is due to the presence of eleidin, a protein that is a precursor to keratin. This layer plays a crucial role in protecting the underlying layers of skin from mechanical stress and friction, contributing to the overall thickness and resilience of the skin in those areas.