Dead skin cells (corneocytes) are flattened, keratin-filled cells that make up the outermost layer of skin (stratum corneum), forming a protective barrier and shedding naturally through desquamation. They are not an added skincare ingredient but a biological structure; their accumulation can affect skin texture and appearance.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dull or rough skin texture from buildup | Common | Excess accumulation when desquamation slows can leave skin looking dull or flaky. |
| Clogged pores / comedones | Uncommon | Buildup combined with sebum may contribute to pore congestion in some individuals. |
| Dry, flaky patches | Common | Impaired shedding can produce visible scaling, especially in dry conditions. |
| Irritation from over-exfoliation when removing them | Uncommon | Aggressive attempts to slough cells can damage the barrier rather than the cells themselves causing harm. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.