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Measuring and Modeling Contractile Drying in Human Stratum Corneum
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Decrease of superficial serine and lactate in the stratum corneum due to repetitive frictional trauma
Lai San Wong1,2,3, Atsushi Otsuka1, Hideaki Tanizaki1
1Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
International Journal of Dermatology
|December 16, 2017
Summary
Repetitive friction from daily washing significantly reduces natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and increases water loss in the stratum corneum (SC). This skin barrier disruption may predispose individuals to atopic dermatitis (AD).
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biophysics
- Skin barrier research
Background:
- Repetitive frictional trauma from daily activities can impact skin barrier function.
- The stratum corneum (SC) composition changes due to friction are not well understood.
- Raman spectroscopy offers a noninvasive method to analyze SC components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of repetitive physical friction on natural moisturizing factor (NMF) components in the SC.
- To assess changes in SC hydration and barrier function markers following friction.
Main Methods:
- Six healthy volunteers participated after informed consent.
- Repetitive washing with soap and nylon towels was performed on the forearm twice daily for two weeks.
- Raman spectroscopy was used to measure NMF components in the SC.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was observed.
- A significant decrease in NMF, serine, and total lactate was found in the SC.
- These changes indicate impaired SC hydration and epidermal barrier function.
Conclusions:
- Decreased NMF and increased TEWL are linked to the etiology of atopic dermatitis (AD).
- Findings suggest that daily activities involving repetitive friction may contribute to AD predisposition.
- This study highlights a potential link between common habits and skin barrier dysfunction.
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