What is the lowest layer of the epidermis called?

The lowest layer of the epidermis is called the basal cell layer, also known as the stratum basale. This layer is crucial because it contains actively dividing cells, known as keratinocytes, which are responsible for generating new skin cells that eventually move up through the epidermis. As these cells divide, they push older cells towards the surface, where they undergo a process of keratinization and eventually shed off.

Additionally, the basal cell layer is important for skin health as it also houses melanocytes, which produce melanin and contribute to skin pigmentation, as well as Merkel cells, which are involved in the sensory perception of touch. Understanding the role of the basal cell layer is essential for appreciating how the skin continuously renews itself and reacts to environmental factors.