Answer the following question given this paragraph: 

The skin consists of two distinct layers, an outer layer called the epidermis and an inner layer called the dermis. The epidermis is constantly being renewed as dead cells on the surface are shed. This layer contains melanin-producing melanocytes. The dermis contains blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and sebaceous and sweat glands.


Q: Shedding of dead cells ensures constant renewal of what outer layer of the skin?


A:
epidermis