Which layer of the skin is located just below the stratum lucidum?

The layer of the skin that is located just below the stratum lucidum is the stratum granulosum. This layer plays a crucial role in the skin's barrier function and helps to protect underlying tissues. In the stratum granulosum, keratinocytes begin to lose their nucleus and cytoplasmic organelles while accumulating keratohyalin granules, which are essential for the formation of keratin. This process contributes to the waterproofing of the skin and assists in preventing the loss of moisture.

The stratum lucidum, found only in certain areas of thick skin such as the palms and soles, is characterized by its clear appearance and is made up of flattened, dead keratinocytes. The presence of the stratum granulosum right beneath ensures that the cells are transitioning properly from living to dead keratinized cells, thus maintaining the integrity and health of the skin barrier.