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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
08:41
Quantifying Abdominal Pigmentation in Drosophila melanogaster
Published on: June 1, 2017
An innovative method to measure skin pigmentation
Yuji Masuda1, Toyonobu Yamashita, Tetsuji Hirao
1Shiseido Research Center, Yokohama, Japan. yuji.masuda@to.shiseido.co.jp
Summary
This study introduces a precise, non-invasive spectrum resolution (SR) method to measure skin melanin content. The SR method accurately tracks changes in epidermal melanin following ultraviolet irradiation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
- Biophysics
Background:
- Accurate measurement of skin pigmentation is essential for cosmetic science and clinical dermatology.
- Existing methods may lack precision or invasiveness.
- Quantifying melanin and hemoglobin concentrations is key to understanding skin conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a non-invasive, precise method for measuring skin melanin content.
- To assess the utility of the spectrum resolution (SR) method for monitoring UV-induced skin changes.
- To establish a reliable technique for cosmetic and dermatological applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the spectrum resolution (SR) method employing a spectrophotometer to analyze skin absorption spectra from reflection spectra.
- Applied multiple regression analysis based on the Lambert-Beer law to determine melanin and hemoglobin concentrations.
- Monitored daily changes in skin on the volar forearm after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation using the SR method.
Main Results:
- Achieved a highly precise estimation of melanin concentrations with a multiple correlation coefficient of 0.993 within the 500-700 nm spectrum.
- Observed a significant increase in melanin concentration by day 8 post-UV irradiation.
- Documented a gradual decrease in melanin concentration after the peak at 8 days.
Conclusions:
- The spectrum resolution (SR) method provides a reliable and non-invasive means to evaluate epidermal melanin changes induced by UV irradiation.
- This technique offers a valuable tool for both research and clinical settings in dermatology and cosmetic science.
- The SR method demonstrates high accuracy in quantifying melanin, crucial for assessing UV damage and treatment efficacy.
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