Your skin cells, basically. They make up the majority of the cells in the outermost layer of your epidermis. Keratin is a protein in your skin, hair and nails.
HyperproliferationAn over production of cells. You'll also see this term in research into cancer.
HyperkeratinizationOver production of skin cells. This is what we suffer from.
Desquamation -The natural elimination of cells from the SC
ApoptosisProgrammed cell death.
DesmosomesPatches that hold skin cells together
Retention HyperkeratosisRapid build up of cells in the follicles and the subsequent inability of the body to slough off those skin cells thereby creating a tough, glue-like substance leading to follicular blockage. Studies have found that individuals suffering from acne lack the necessary enzymes to break down the cellular glue that leads to the blockage. Since the follicle is blocked it provides the perfect “non-oxygenated” environment for P Acnes bacteria
Over production of skin cells plus a delay in, or impairment of apoptosis (- programmed cell death) in keratinocytes that prevents the desmosomes (patches that hold cells together) from disintegrating at a normal pace allowing them to become extra rough and 'sticky' and more likely to clog pores. This tendency is genetically influenced.