What is the layer of epidermis where cells with visible granules die and come to the surface called?

The stratum granulosum is the layer of the epidermis characterized by keratinocytes that contain visible granules. These granules are filled with keratohyalin, a protein that helps to bind keratin filaments together, making the skin more robust and providing a barrier against moisture loss. In this layer, the cells begin to undergo a process of keratinization, which is where they lose their nuclei and organelles, ultimately leading to their death.

As the cells move closer to the surface of the skin, they undergo changes that prepare them to form a protective outer layer. This process is essential for maintaining the skin's integrity and preventing external factors from penetrating the body. The stratum granulosum serves as an important transitional layer between the living cells of the lower epidermal layers and the dead cells of the outermost layer, the stratum corneum. This makes the knowledge of the stratum granulosum crucial for understanding both skin physiology and the effective application of manicuring practices.