Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the skin’s stratum corneum caused by a disrupted skin renewal process, often due to mechanical irritation, vitamin deficiency, or an underlying skin disease. It shows up as dryness, peeling and thickened skin, sometimes with itching or inflammation. Treatment involves keratolytic agents together with addressing the underlying cause.
The condition develops when keratinized cells accumulate on the skin surface faster than they are naturally shed. This process may occur in areas exposed to constant pressure or friction, as well as in connection with vitamin deficiencies or certain skin diseases.
It is manifested by dryness, peeling, thickening of the skin and may be accompanied by itching or inflammation. Treatment includes the use of keratolytics and the elimination of the cause of the disorder.