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Updated: Sep 6, 2026

Measuring and Modeling Contractile Drying in Human Stratum Corneum
Published on: March 1, 2017
Influence of dry environment on epidermal function
1Shiseido Life Science Research Center, 2-12-1 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, 236-8643, Yokohama, Japan. mitsuhiro.denda@to.shiseido.co.jp
Abstract:
Recent studies have demonstrated that a dry environment contributes to the exacerbation of cutaneous disorders such as epidermal hyperplasia, mast cell degranulation, and cytokine secretion. The effects of a dry environment on the skin can be prevented by occlusion with water-impermeable material or topical application of a humectant. The stratum corneum, which protects internal organs from the environment, has two functions: a water-impermeable barrier function and a buffer function against a dry environment. Regulation of protease activity or ionic balance in the epidermis can accelerate barrier repair after injury. Improvement of the stratum corneum homeostasis can ameliorate skin damage induced by barrier disruption in a dry environment.
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