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Keratinocytes form the majority of cells in the skin and originate in the basal layer of the skin – they are formed from the division of the keratinocyte stem cells.
After being formed they are pushed up through the layers of the skin, undergoing differentiation until they reach the outer part of the skin – the stratum corneum - where they form a layer of flattened, highly keratinized cells – also referred to as squamous cells.
This layer forms an effective barrier to prevent the entry of foreign matter and infectious agents into the body and also helps to minimize moisture loss.
Keratinocytes are shed and replaced continuously from the outer stratum corneum – and in certain cases, an unnatural build-up of dead skin cells form, known as hyperkeratinization, which can be a contributory factor in the formation of acne.
Exfoliation with a good face scrub is beneficial, removing dead skin cells, which left unattended could lead to a dull and dry looking skin.
For more information on keratinocytes and their function in the skin, please click here.
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