Keratin is a type of structural protein found in your hair, skin, and nails ( 1 ). It's especially important for maintaining the structure of your skin, supporting wound healing, and keeping your hair and nails healthy and strong ( 1 ).

Where would keratin be found?

A type of protein found on epithelial cells, which line the inside and outside surfaces of the body. Keratins help form the tissues of the hair, nails, and the outer layer of the skin. They are also found on cells in the lining of organs, glands, and other parts of the body.

What is keratin where is it found and how is it formed?

Keratins are a group of tough, fibrous proteins that form the structural framework of cells called keratinocytes that make up the skin, hair, and nails. Keratin 1 is produced in keratinocytes in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), including the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.