Desmosome

When it comes to skin health, there's more than meets the eye. Deep within our skin, specialized cell structures called desmosomes work tirelessly to maintain our skin's structure and health. These vital components of the cell not only keep our skin intact but also contribute significantly to its resilience, elasticity, and overall aesthetic appearance.

Desmosome Defined

Desmosomes are small intercellular junctions between neighboring cells responsible for ensuring strong adhesion between them (source). This function is particularly crucial in tissues subjected to mechanical stress such as the heart, uterus, and notably - our skin.

Role of Desmosomes in Skin Health

In the context of skincare, desmosomes hold cells together and facilitate rapid turnover rates. They guarantee that when old cells on the surface die off and flake away (a natural process known as exfoliation), there are plenty of healthy new ones underneath to take their place (source).

Besides holding cells together, they also help with communication between cells and influence cellular behavior like proliferation or differentiation (source). This can impact various aspects of skin health such as wound healing or aging.

Desmosomes and Aging Skin

As we age, the performance of these tiny structures can decline which leads to decreased cell turnover, resulting in thinner, less resilient skin. However, products containing ingredients like retinol can stimulate cell turnover, indirectly boosting the function of desmosomes and enhancing the appearance of your skin (source).

Desmosomes and Skin Conditions

Research has also found a link between malfunctioning desmosomes and certain skin conditions such as pemphigus vulgaris, an autoimmune disease that results in blistering on the skin and mucous membranes (source). In these cases, strengthening or repairing the function of desmosomes could be a potential treatment strategy.

In conclusion, understanding desmosomes can give us valuable insights into maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. They are silent workers deep within our epidermis that play a crucial role in keeping our skin robust and beautiful.