Hyperkeratosis: When the skin “reacts” – Causes, symptoms, and proper care

The skin functions as a natural protective barrier against adverse factors, both external and internal. Hyperkeratosis is a condition that reflects the skin’s reaction to the presence of “aggressive” factors and most commonly manifests with symptoms such as thickening and roughness. In other words, it is a defensive mechanism of the epidermis. However, when hyperkeratosis becomes intense and prolonged, it may lead to discomfort, irritation, and reduced aesthetic appearance. Therefore, understanding its causes, symptoms, and appropriate skin care methods is a critical factor in its effective management.

What is hyperkeratosis

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the skin. It is rich in keratin, which protects the body from external factors. Under normal conditions, this layer is continuously renewed, removing dead cells. However, when this natural process is disrupted and accelerated, hyperkeratosis appears, leading to:

• Hardening of skin areas
• Roughness or scaling
• Tendency toward cracking and irritation
• Dull or non-elastic appearance

This condition may be localized (e.g., soles, elbows) or generalized, depending on the causes and predisposing factors.

Causes of hyperkeratosis

Hyperkeratosis does not occur randomly; most often, it is the result of a combination of factors, the most important of which are:

Age and natural aging: Over the years, the epidermis loses its natural moisture and elasticity. In addition, cell renewal slows down, leading to an accumulation of keratin, which in turn contributes to thickening and roughness of the skin.

Genetic predisposition: Certain skin types show a greater tendency towards hyperkeratosis. This may be related to increased keratin production or reduced natural exfoliation.

Environmental factors: Dry air, low temperatures, sun exposure, and pollutants intensify moisture loss and sensitize the skin, increasing thickening of the stratum corneum.

Friction and pressure: Areas exposed to repeated friction or pressure, such as the soles, elbows, and knees, often develop hyperkeratosis. This occurs because continuous mechanical stress triggers reinforcement of the stratum corneum as a form of defense.

Dermatological conditions: Skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or atopic skin can cause or exacerbate hyperkeratosis. In such cases, thickening is often combined with redness, inflammation, and intense dryness.

Symptoms and identification

Hyperkeratosis most commonly manifests with symptoms such as hard or rough skin surfaces, a scaly appearance or peeling, small cracks or a tendency toward itching, as well as a dull appearance or reduced elasticity. Early recognition of symptoms allows prevention of worsening and effectively reduces the risk of discomfort or complications.

Care and prevention of hyperkeratosis

Managing hyperkeratosis requires systematic care, focused on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and skin protection.

Daily hydration: Applying appropriate products to maintain skin elasticity and softness is essential. MACROVITA Cracked Skin Cream with olive oil & almond oil is suitable for areas of the skin that show hyperkeratosis. With 12% urea, it is an exceptionally emollient, nourishing, and hydrating cream that helps the skin remove dead cells, effectively promoting the healthy regeneration of dry, dehydrated, or cracked skin.

Gentle exfoliation: 1 to 2 times per week, exfoliate the areas that show symptoms of hyperkeratosis to enhance the removal of dead cells. A homemade, DIY peeling for rough areas of the body is ideal! You will need:

2 tbsp brown sugar
3 tbsp vegetable butter
1 tbsp MACROVITA Sesame Oil
1 tbsp MACROVITA Argan Oil
½ tbsp MACROVITA Oregano Oil

Simply place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well until the mixture becomes uniform. Take a sufficient amount of the mixture and apply it to the rough areas of your body (heels, soles, knees, elbows), gently rubbing for a few minutes. Leave it on for a little longer so the oils can act and then remove with lukewarm water.

The grains of brown sugar will provide gentle and effective exfoliation. The vegetable butter will soften and deeply nourish even the driest areas of your body, thanks to its content of vitamins and lipids. Sesame oil and argan oil will moisturize, nourish, and restore elasticity to these areas. Finally, oregano oil will strengthen the skin’s natural defense against microorganisms.

Protection of high-friction areas: Use socks, gloves, or cushioning to protect sensitive areas (e.g., soles, elbows, knees).

Avoid harsh soaps and very hot water, which dehydrate the epidermis.

In severe or persistent cases, or when pain, bleeding, or intense inflammation occurs, a visit to a dermatologist is essential.

Hyperkeratosis is a common yet manageable skin condition. With an understanding of its causes, early recognition of symptoms, and systematic care, the skin can remain soft, healthy, and protected.