5. stratified squamous epithelium Description: multiple layers of cells Surface cells are flattened Basal cells. cuboidal or columnar active in mitosis and produce the cells of the more superficial layers Function resists abrasion and acts as a barrier Retards water loss through skin Locations: skin, mouth, vagina, esophagus,etc5. stratified squamous epithelium Description: multiple layers of cells. Surface cells are flattened. Basal cells: cuboidal or columnar; active in mitosis and produce the cells of the more superficial layers. Function:resists abrasion and acts as a barrier, Retards water loss through skin. Locations: skin, mouth, vagina, esophagus，etc