Laser Technician (International Board of Electrologist Certification) IBEC Board Exam

The presence of melanin is primarily associated with which layer of the skin?

1. Stratum granulosum

2. Stratum corneum

3. Stratum germinativum

4. Stratum lucidum

The correct answer is: Stratum germinativum

The presence of melanin is primarily associated with the stratum germinativum, which is often referred to as the basal layer of the epidermis. This layer is where melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, are predominantly located. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes and plays a crucial role in protecting the underlying layers of skin from UV radiation by absorbing and dissipating it. In this layer, melanocytes produce melanin in response to various stimuli, including sun exposure. The melanin then migrates to surrounding keratinocytes, providing pigmentation to the skin. The other layers mentioned do not play this role: the stratum granulosum is involved in the process of keratinization, the stratum corneum is the outermost layer that consists mainly of dead keratinized cells, and the stratum lucidum is found only in certain areas of thick skin, such as the palms and soles, serving a different function. Thus, the association of melanin with the stratum germinativum is well-established in the anatomy and physiology of the skin.