Keratinocyte

A keratinocyte is the predominant cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin and contributes to the skin’s protective barrier.

Keratinocytes originate in the deeper part of the epidermis and progressively mature as they move toward the skin surface. During this process, they change structure and accumulate keratin.

At the surface, mature keratinocytes become corneocytes, which eventually shed as part of normal skin renewal.

QUICK FACT

Most (up to 90%) of the cells in the epidermis are keratinocytes.

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