Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

In which layer of the skin does continuous cell division take place?

1. Stratum corneum

2. Visible layer

3. Basal cell layer

4. Stratum granulosum

The correct answer is: Basal cell layer

Continuous cell division primarily occurs in the basal cell layer of the skin, also known as the stratum germinativum. This layer is the deepest part of the epidermis and serves as the origin point for new skin cells. As cells in the basal layer divide, they push older cells up through the various layers of the epidermis. This process is vital for skin regeneration and repair, as it maintains the epidermal structure and ensures the skin remains healthy. The other layers, such as the stratum corneum and stratum granulosum, consist of cells that have either exited the mitotic cycle or are in later stages of differentiation. The visible layer mentioned is typically a more general term for the uppermost part of the skin that is not involved in active cell division. Thus, the basal cell layer is essential for continuous cell division and plays a crucial role in skin health and regeneration.