Which layer of the skin is found just below the stratum corneum?

The correct layer of the skin found just below the stratum corneum is the stratum lucidum. This layer is a thin, clear layer of dead skin cells that is not always present in all skin types; it is primarily found in thick skin areas such as the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. The stratum lucidum provides an additional barrier and contributes to the overall thickness and protective quality of the outer skin.

The stratum granulosum, located beneath the stratum lucidum in areas where the latter is present, consists of keratinocytes that are in the process of keratinization, providing a critical barrier function. Similarly, the stratum spinosum, further below the stratum granulosum, contains keratinocytes that are beginning to flatten and desquamate. Lastly, the stratum basale is the deepest layer of the epidermis where cell proliferation occurs, giving rise to new keratinocytes.

Thus, given the context and the structure of the layers, the stratum lucidum is correctly identified as the layer situated immediately below the stratum corneum.