Where does hyperkeratosis typically occur on the skin?

Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the outer layer of the skin, specifically the stratum corneum, which often occurs as a protective response to irritants. This phenomenon typically manifests in areas of the skin subjected to constant pressure or friction, leading to an increase in keratin production. Such locations are often the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or other regions where the skin frequently encounters mechanical stress.

This adaptive reaction serves to protect the underlying tissues from damage and can be seen in conditions such as calluses or other similar skin changes. Thus, the presence of hyperkeratosis in areas of constant pressure or friction is a clear indicator of the skin’s response to its environment, highlighting the importance of understanding skin adaptations in athletic training and injury prevention.