Yes, a callus is primarily composed of dead skin cells.
Understanding Calluses
A callus is a thickened area of skin that develops as a protective response to repeated friction or pressure. The reference material clearly states that a callus is a "hardened, thickened pad of dead skin cells at the surface layer of the skin." This build-up of dead cells creates a tough, protective layer to shield the underlying sensitive skin from further damage. Think of it like a natural shield your body creates.
- Formation: Calluses form when the epidermis (outer skin layer) cells increase their activity in response to consistent pressure or friction.
- Composition: The increased cell production results in a build-up of compacted, dead keratinocytes – the main cells of the epidermis. These dead cells accumulate, forming the hard, protective callus.
- Function: The primary function of a callus is to protect the underlying tissue from further injury.
While the callus itself is composed of dead skin cells, it's crucial to remember that the process of callus formation involves living cells in the underlying epidermis that are actively producing these protective cells. The dead cells are merely the end result of this process.
