Does the keratin in keratinocytes protect your epidermis and dermis from harmful effects of sunlight?

No, the keratin in keratinocytes does not protect your epidermis and dermis from harmful effects of sunlight.

While keratin is a protein found in the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis), it does not provide significant protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. The primary role of keratin in the skin is to provide strength and flexibility, not sun protection.

The main defense against harmful UV rays is melanin, which is produced by cells called melanocytes located in the epidermis. Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen by absorbing and scattering UV radiation, preventing it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin and causing damage.