Which statement best describes the effect of mechanical action on desquamation?

Which statement best describes the effect of mechanical action on desquamation?

• A. Decreases desquamation
• B. Increases desquamation
• C. No change
• D. Causes pigmentation changes

Answer: (B)

Mechanical action physically disrupts the outer skin layer, accelerating the shedding of dead cells. Desquamation is that shedding process of corneocytes from the stratum corneum, and applying friction or exfoliating devices increases how quickly those cells detach. So, mechanical action leads to more desquamation. Excessive action can irritate the skin, but its direct effect on desquamation is to increase it. Pigmentation changes aren’t the primary result of this action.

Mechanical action physically disrupts the outer skin layer, accelerating the shedding of dead cells. Desquamation is that shedding process of corneocytes from the stratum corneum, and applying friction or exfoliating devices increases how quickly those cells detach. So, mechanical action leads to more desquamation. Excessive action can irritate the skin, but its direct effect on desquamation is to increase it. Pigmentation changes aren’t the primary result of this action.