Frequent hand washing can cause the outer layers of skin to dry out. What is removed from skin during this activity? O Melanin Sebum Keratin

Frequent hand washing primarily removes **sebum** from the skin. Here's a brief explanation of each option: - **Melanin**: This is the pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes. It is not removed by washing hands. - **Sebum**: This is an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands in the skin. It helps to keep the skin moisturized and protected. Frequent washing can strip away this natural oil, leading to dryness. - **Keratin**: This is a protein that makes up the outer layer of the skin, hair, and nails. While washing can affect the outer layer of skin, keratin itself is not removed in significant amounts through washing. Therefore, the correct answer is **Sebum**.