The Skin Blood Supply Factor (SBSF): a useful index for hyperaemia-producing fitness cosmetics

Synopsis While topical agents cannot really ensure an adequate nutrition of the skin, the natural skin function can at least be stimulated by hyperaemia-producing substances for topical use, which act on the peripheral circulation and thus promote regeneration and nutrition of the skin. In studies involving male and female sports students a given product was applied to the thighs and abdomen. Prior to and 1 h after application skin temperature was measured at accurately defined sites. The quotient computed between the maximum temperatures at treated and untreated test sites was defined to be the Skin Blood Supply Factor. Within the limits of this definition, maximum temperatures of 32.45 degrees C and 32.25 degrees C in treated and untreated skin areas, respectively, give a Skin Blood Supply Factor of 1.04. This is equivalent to a product-induced temperature rise of 4%. Our tests showed that for a physiological effect to be achieved the factor must not be lower than 1.02. In view of peripheral vascular function and considering that product application is virtually unlimited, a factor of 1.08 should not be exceeded.