ABSTRACT
The outermost skin layer, the stratum corneum (SC), can be removed sequentially by repeated application of appropriate adhesive tapes [1]. This technique, commonly known as “SC tape stripping,” is a relatively noninvasive frequently used method to investigate the structure, properties, and functions of SC in vivo [2]. SC consists of corneocytes embedded in lipid layers and represents the main barrier for skin penetration of xenobiotics. Its thickness in healthy adults varies from 5 to 20 µm, except in the SC of the palm and sole, where SC is thicker. Other techniques to remove SC include skin surface biopsy using cyanoacrylate strips and diverse skin scraping techniques.
