The epidermis undergoes a process of cell shedding known as what?

Desquamation refers to the natural shedding of the outer layer of skin cells, which is a crucial process for maintaining healthy skin. This process ensures that dead or damaged skin cells are removed, allowing newer, healthier cells to emerge from the deeper layers of the epidermis. As the skin cells in the epidermis undergo changes and move toward the surface, they gradually die and become filled with keratin, a protein that helps protect the skin.

While keratinization is the process by which skin cells become filled with keratin as they move toward the surface, it is not synonymous with shedding. Rejuvenation generally refers to methods of improving the appearance of the skin or restoration of vitality, and hyperplasia is the increase in the number of cells, which is not directly related to the shedding process. Therefore, desquamation is accurately defined as the shedding of the epidermis, highlighting its role in skin health and renewal.