Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026
08:00
Measuring and Modeling Contractile Drying in Human Stratum Corneum
Published on: March 1, 2017
Colorimetric method for quantifying human Stratum corneum removed by adhesive-tape stripping
F Dreher1, A Arens, J J Hostýnek
1School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, University of California, San Francisco 94143, USA.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|May 29, 1998
Summary
A new colorimetric method accurately quantifies stratum corneum removed via tape-stripping. This protein quantification technique offers a reproducible alternative to weighing for skin penetration studies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Tape-stripping is crucial for analyzing the stratum corneum's barrier function.
- Quantifying removed stratum corneum is vital for topical application studies.
- Current weighing methods for stratum corneum quantification are prone to artifacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simple, colorimetric method for quantifying stratum corneum removed by tape-stripping.
- To establish an accurate and reproducible alternative to traditional weighing methods.
Main Methods:
- Utilized sequential adhesive-tape-stripping of human skin in vivo.
- Quantified sodium hydroxide soluble protein fraction using a commercial protein assay (similar to Lowry assay).
Main Results:
- The colorimetric method accurately and reproducibly quantifies removed stratum corneum.
- Demonstrated uniform removal of stratum corneum layers, especially after initial strips.
- The method provides a reliable alternative to skin sample weighing.
Conclusions:
- The developed colorimetric assay is a viable and effective method for stratum corneum quantification.
- This technique enhances the study of skin penetration and barrier function.
- Offers improved accuracy and reproducibility in tape-stripping research.
