Desquamation occurs through the coordinated actions of several cellular and biochemical processes. The outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, is composed of dead keratinocytes that are continuously shed and replaced by new cells from the underlying layers. Enzymes such as proteases and lipases play a vital role in breaking down the intercellular connections (desmosomes) that hold these dead cells together. This ensures a steady turnover of cells, maintaining skin health and function.
