This type of epithelium is many cell layers thick, its surface cells are squamous in shape, and its most superficial layers are keratinized.

• This epithelium is found in the skin where it’s called the epidermis and serves as a strong, covering and protective layer that helps prevent dehydration of the body.
• Some areas in the oral cavity and on the superior surface of the tongue are also lined by stratified squamous, keratinized epithelia.
• Take a look at this example of epidermis, as well as an image of epidermis to the right.
• Note that the superficial layers are very thin and lack nuclei. These layers are composed of bundles of keratin intermediate filaments, which form as the epithelial cells differentiate and die. Also note the squamous shape of the last layer of nucleated cells (blue arrows) located just beneath the keratinized layer.
• The most superficial keratinized layers are only loosely attached and are steadily lost (desquamated) and replaced.
   

Stratified cuboidal and transitional epithelium.