What is the term for the natural shedding of dead skin cells?

Desquamation refers specifically to the natural process by which dead skin cells are shed from the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. This process is a vital aspect of skin health, allowing for the turnover of cells and the maintenance of a fresh and effective barrier against environmental factors.

During desquamation, cells that have reached the end of their lifecycle are sloughed off and replaced by new cells that migrate up from the deeper layers of the epidermis. This continuous renewal process helps to keep the skin smooth and may also assist in preventing the build-up of dead cells, which can lead to issues such as clogged pores or rough texture.

While exfoliation can often refer to the process of removing dead skin cells, it is typically used in a context where additional methods, such as scrubbing or using chemical exfoliants, are employed to enhance skin renewal. Keratinization is the process that leads to the formation of the protein keratin in the skin, contributing to skin structure and barrier function. Hyperkeratosis is a condition characterized by the thickening of the outer layer of the skin, which can occur due to various factors, but does not specifically denote the natural shedding of skin cells.