Enhancing the Skin Barrier through Distinct Classification of Normal Human Skin Keratinocytes
In the realm of skincare, hydration is a top priority for consumers worldwide. This is evident in the high usage of facial moisturizers, with 72% of women in America, 75% in China, and 64% in China using night creams alone [1]. But what exactly contributes to this skin hydration? Let's delve into the world of Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK), the unsung heroes of skincare.
NHEK cells, originating in the base of the epidermis (stratum basale), play a pivotal role in maintaining skin hydration. As they migrate towards the skin's outer layer, the stratum corneum, they undergo a series of changes, transforming into flat, keratin-rich squames [2].
Upon reaching the stratum corneum, these cells become flat, nucleus-free, and rich in keratin. This process, known as keratinization, creates the skin's solid outer layer. But NHEK cells do more than just provide a barrier. As they progress, they produce various compounds and proteins essential for skin health, such as keratin, cytokines, and growth factors [3].
The secretion of lipids and proteins, such as lamellar bodies (LB) from granular keratinocytes, forms a hydrophobic lipid matrix embedding corneocytes in the stratum corneum. This structure is crucial to skin barrier homeostasis, providing both mechanical protection and moisture retention [2][4].
Stimulating NHEK differentiation plays a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration. By promoting the formation of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, this process minimizes transepidermal water loss and prevents the entry of pathogens, thus preserving skin hydration and integrity [1][2].
It's important to note that while the concept of NHEK differentiation may not be clearly stated on beauty product labels, it is essential to their effectiveness. Actives like AquaxtremTM from Provital have been developed to stimulate NHEK differentiation, strengthening the structure of stratum corneum cells and responding to the demand for natural origin beauty and personal care products [5].
Adequate keratin levels can be ensured through a diet rich in minerals, vitamins, and proteins. However, a lack of keratin can slow down hair growth and weaken existing hair [6].
The demand for moisturizing products is not limited to the women's beauty sector. The men's beauty sector is also seeing an increase in demand for such products [7]. By understanding the role of NHEK cells in skin hydration, we can make informed choices about the skincare products we use, ensuring we maintain our skin's natural defenses and overall health.
References: 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6372598/ 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6416234/ 3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7772409/ 4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6713284/ 5. https://www.provital-sa.com/en/products/actives/aquaxtrem/ 6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5850314/ 7. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1033646/global-skincare-market-size-by-product-category-and-gender/
- Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK), located in the base of the epidermis, are central to maintaining skin hydration by producing essential compounds and proteins such as keratin, cytokines, and growth factors.
- The secretion of lipids and proteins from granular keratinocytes, like lamellar bodies, forms a crucial hydrophobic lipid matrix in the stratum corneum, providing both mechanical protection and moisture retention.
- Stimulating NHEK differentiation plays a key role in maintaining skin hydration as it strengthens the structure of the stratum corneum, minimizing transepidermal water loss and bolstering the skin's natural defenses.
- A healthy diet rich in minerals, vitamins, and proteins can help ensure adequate keratin levels, contributing to hair growth and overall skin health, connecting nutrition with skin care and women's health.
