What does keratinisation mean?
Keratinisation is the process by which cells or tissues convert into keratin, a tough structural protein that helps give hair, nails, and the outer layer of the skin their firmness and protective qualities. In hair, keratinisation takes place as cells in the follicle produce the protein, lose their living characteristics, and form the hardened shaft that can be seen above the skin. The term is also used medically when this process occurs abnormally or excessively, particularly in certain skin and hair conditions. Although related forms such as “keratinise” and “keratinize” can describe the action itself, “keratinisation” normally names the process as a whole. It is a chiefly technical expression, but it connects a familiar biological transformation with the material responsible for the distinctive texture and strength of familiar bodily structures.
nounThe process of conversion into keratin, especially the hardening of tissue through the formation and accumulation of this structural protein. It is particularly important in the development of hair, nails, and the outermost layer of the skin.
- The biochemical process in which cells or tissues produce and accumulate keratin, becoming hardened or keratinized.
"The doctor explained that the condition resulted from abnormal keratinisation of the hair follicles."
"Keratinisation begins in the hair follicle and helps give the growing hair its strength."
"The biopsy showed abnormal keratinisation in the outer layer of the skin."
The plural is used when referring to multiple instances or types of the process.
"The study compared differences in keratinisation among several groups of animals."
Your hair and the outer layer of your skin owe much of their strength to keratin, the tough protein that also forms horns and hooves.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does keratinisation come from?
The word is formed from “keratin,” a name for the structural protein found in hair, nails, and the outer layer of the skin. “Keratin” was created from the Greek kéras, meaning “horn,” combined with the protein suffix “-in.” The ending “-isation” was subsequently added in the same form used for English nouns denoting a process or action.
Related word forms
How keratinisation is actually used
This is primarily a technical term in biology, dermatology, and cosmetology. British English generally uses the spelling “keratinisation,” while American English generally uses “keratinization.”
Easily confused with keratinisation
Keratinization is the American spelling of the same process referred to as keratinisation in British English.