18 Feb Keratinocytes – Part 7 of 12 of the One Skin Series
Keratinocytes – Part 7 of 12 of the One Skin Series. Learn more about keeping your keratinocytes healthy.
- Keratinocytes make up the majority of skin cells and are the most active.
- UV light increases the risk of developing basal cell/squamous cell carcinoma, the cancerous forms of keratinocytes.
- Keratinocytes originate at the base and migrate towards the surface to create a strong barrier to environmental exposure.
- This same layer with time will break down and slough off, known as exfoliation, allowing healthier keratinocytes beneath to replace them.
- A strong barrier function is created by the normal maturation and sloughing of the keratinocytes.
- This process of exfoliation takes 4-6 weeks
- If the process of exfoliation is hampered, then the barrier function can be compromised.
- Normal renewal of the keratinocytes = healthy, tolerant skin.