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In vitro transepidermal water loss: differences between black and white human skin
D Wilson1, E Berardesca, H I Maibach
1Department of Dermatology, University of California Medical School, San Francisco.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Black skin exhibits higher transepidermal water loss (TEWL) than white skin, according to in vitro studies. This difference may relate to thermoregulation and stratum corneum variations between races.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Human Physiology
- Skin Barrier Function
Background:
- In vivo transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements are prone to significant variability.
- Environmental factors and eccrine sweating can confound in vivo TEWL assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare TEWL between Black and White individuals using an in vitro method.
- To investigate the relationship between skin temperature and TEWL across racial groups.
Main Methods:
- An in vitro technique was employed to measure TEWL, avoiding confounding factors like sweating.
- TEWL was assessed in two racial groups: Black and White individuals.
Main Results:
- A significant positive correlation between skin temperature and TEWL was observed in both racial groups (P < 0.01).
- Black skin demonstrated a significantly higher mean TEWL (2.79 µg/cm²/h) compared to White skin (2.61 µg/cm²/h).
- The observed differences were measured in the absence of eccrine sweating, suggesting intrinsic skin properties.
Conclusions:
- In vitro TEWL measurements reveal significant differences between Black and White skin.
- Higher TEWL in Black skin may be attributed to thermoregulatory mechanisms and distinct stratum corneum characteristics.
- Further research into racial differences in skin anatomy and physiology is warranted.