WHAT IS KERATIN?

Keratin is a protein that provides strength to various external tissues in the body, such as hair, nails, and skin. It is also present in glands and organs. The body produces keratin, but it relies on consuming enough protein in the diet. Insufficient protein intake can lead to brittle nails, thinning hair, and dry or flaking skin. There are two forms of keratin: alpha-keratin, found in mammals, and beta-keratin, found in birds and reptiles. Alpha-keratin forms strands inside cells to create a strong skin shield, while beta-keratin produces scales, feathers, beaks, and claws. Keratin is found in different forms in various tissues, with each form serving a specific function. Keratin disorders can result in conditions such as fragile and blistered skin, scaly appearance, thick nails, curly hair, and multiple cysts in the skin. [Extracted from the article]