Hyperkeratosis is characterized by localized thickening of the
dermis and is caused by many things. Some common causes are
excessive friction to the skin, constant pressure, harmful
radiation, and infection. It occurs as a result of accumulation
of excess keratin on certain parts of the skin. Hyperkeratosis
is quite common on the hands since most activities are carried
out with the hands. The hands are also exposed to harmful
radiation the most, especially from the sun’s rays.
Hyperkeratosis forms as the body tries to prevent damage to
deeper tissues of the body. One of the ways in which
hyperkeratosis can be dealt with is consistent cleaning. The
affected areas should be cleaned thoroughly and regularly in
order to get rid of the excessive keratin. Exfoliating is the
best method to deal with hyperkeratosis. Cleaning should
therefore be done with an exfoliating scrub preferably without
using any soap. Constant cleaning has been known to not only
remove the hyperkeratosis but also to hasten the skin’s healing