Squamous epithelium is a type of tissue made up of flat, scale-like cells. It forms a protective layer on surfaces throughout the body, such as the skin and the lining of organs. This tissue is important for functions like absorption, secretion, and protection against physical damage. There are two main types of squamous epithelium: simple squamous epithelium, which consists of a single layer of cells, and stratified squamous epithelium, which has multiple layers. Simple squamous epithelium is often found in areas where rapid exchange of substances occurs, like in the lungs, while stratified squamous epithelium provides more protection in areas like the skin.