Hyperkeratosis

Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum) due to excessive production of keratin. It can be a protective reaction of the skin or a symptom of various skin diseases.

Types

• Mechanical hyperkeratosis (protective reaction): caused by pressure, friction or mechanical load – e.g. calluses, callosities and corns.
• Pathological hyperkeratosis: caused by skin diseases or genetic factors – e.g. psoriasis, ichthyosis or actinic keratosis (caused by UV radiation).

Symptoms

• thickened, rough areas of skin
• cracks or fissures, especially on hands and feet
• pain or tenderness (e.g. with calluses or corns)
• scaling or discolouration of the skin

Treatment

• mechanical removal: gentle filing (pumice stone, callus file) or podiatric treatment for heavy callus or pain
• care products: keratolytic creams with urea or salicylic acid, moisturising and rich creams
• medical therapy for pathological forms (dermatology)

More in our guide Cracked heels and calluses.