MODEL RELEASED. Skin strip. Scientist holding an epidermal strip grown in the laboratory. Epidermal cells make up the epidermis, the tough outer layer of the skin. When cultured under the correct conditions, these human cells form epidermal strips that can be used to treat skin diseases such as vitiligo, a pigmentation disorder. This research was developed at the IDI dermatology institute, Pomezia, Italy, under the direction of professor Michele de Luca (seen here). She is working in a sterile cabinet and is wearing protective clothing and gloves.