Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Blaschko's Lines
Oct 12, 2022
Did you know your skin has hidden stripes? These intriguing Blaschko's lines, only visible under UV light, reveal the migratory paths of skin cells during fetal development. The patterns reflect genetic diversity, showcasing the unique mosaics of our skin. The podcast dives into how these lines connect to conditions like vitiligo, shedding light on personal experiences and the complex beauty of human skin. Explore the fascinating intersection of genetics and individuality in this captivating discussion!
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Human Stripes
- Humans have stripes called Blaschko's lines, named after dermatologist Alfred Blaschko.
- These stripes are typically invisible under normal light but can be seen under UV light.
Origin of Blaschko's Lines
- Blaschko's lines don't follow any known body system like blood vessels or nerves.
- They are thought to be evidence of skin cell migration during fetal development.
Visibility of Blaschko's Lines
- Skin cells, though genetically similar, have slightly different expressions due to individual experiences.
- These subtle variations become visible under UV light, revealing the patterns of Blaschko's lines.