Analysis of facial sebum distribution using a digital fluorescent imaging system

Current methods for analysis of sebum excretion have limitations, such as irreproducible results in repeatable measurements due to the point measurement method, user-dependent artifacts due to contact measurement or qualitative evaluation of the image, and long measurement time. A UV-induced fluorescent digital imaging system is developed to acquire facial images so that the distribution of sebum excretion on the face could be analyzed. The imaging system consists of a constant UV-A light source, digital color camera, and head-positioning device. The system for acquisition of a fluorescent facial image and the image analysis method is described. The imaging modality provides uniform light distribution and presents a discernible color fluorescent image. Valuable parameters of sebum excretion are obtained after image analysis. The imaging system, which provides a noncontact method, is proved to be a useful tool to evaluate the amount and pattern of sebum excretion. When compared to conventional "Wood's lamp" and "Sebutape" methods that provide similar parameters for sebum excretion, the described method is simpler and more reliable to evaluate the dynamics of sebum excretion in nearly real-time.