friction ridge skin

Friction ridge skin refers to the patterned ridges and valleys found on the surfaces of fingertips, palms, soles, and toes. These ridges increase grip and tactile sensitivity, allowing us to hold objects securely and feel textures. The unique arrangements of these ridge patterns—such as loops, whorls, and arch shapes—are individual to each person, making them useful for identification. Friction ridge skin is epidermis (outer skin) with specialized ridges that develop during fetal growth and remain unchanged throughout life, providing a reliable means of personal recognition through fingerprint analysis.