Use of the Reviscometer for measuring cosmetics-induced skin surface effects

Split-face comparison of hydroquinone 4% plus nitrogen plasma vs. hydroquinone 4% alone in the treatment of melasma

Treatment of skin diseases is important yet challenging. One of the most common skin diseases in women is melasma, which features acquired facial hyperpigmentation. We studied the effect of cold atmospheric nitrogen plasma on this disease. To characterize the nitrogen plasma, we obtained the relative intensity of the species and the plasma temperature and skin temperature during processing at different input powers and gas flows. Patients complaining of melasma were treated with hydroquinone on both sides of the face, and one side was randomly selected for additional nitrogen plasma therapy. Eight treatment sessions of plasma processing were provided 1 week apart, and one follow-up session was scheduled 1 month after the end of treatment. The rate of improvement was scored by a dermatologist in the eighth session and 1 month following the last session using the modified Melasma Area Severity Index (mMASI). Skin biomechanical characteristics such as melanin, cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and hydration were measured at baseline and during the fourth, eighth, and follow-up sessions. On both sides, we observed a significant decrease in both CRRT and melanin (P < 0.05). TEWL did not change on both sides, while hydration decreased significantly only on the side to which hydroquinone was applied in isolation (P < 0.05). According to clinical scores, on both sides, we had significant improvement. On the side that plasma was not applied, the percentage reduction of pigmentation (mMASI) in the eighth and follow-up sessions in comparison with the baseline was 5.49 ± 8.50% and 33.04 ± 9.17%, respectively, while on the other side, these figures were 20.57 ± 6.64% and 48.11 ± 11%. For melanin, these figures were 13.84 ± 4.84% and 18.23 ± 7.10% on the hydroquinone side and 21.56 ± 3.13% and 23.93 ± 3.02% on the other side. According to these results, nitrogen plasma can safely complement topical hydroquinone to improve clinical outcomes when treating melasma without causing stratum corneum damage or skin discomfort, though confirmatory studies are needed.

Soap or alcohol-based products? The effect of hand hygiene on skin characteristics during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

Different strategies for hand skin hygiene have been used to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2. However, frequent hand sanitization has been associated with skin damage. The present study aimed to evaluate hand hygiene habits during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effect of the repetitive use of soap or alcohol-based products on skin characteristics.

METHODS

We conducted a survey regards hand hygiene habits acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, we performed cutometry in a cohort of individuals who cleansed their volar forearms every 30 min, during 4 h, using soap or alcohol-based products.

RESULTS

We received 138 responses from people with medium-high educational level who reported a 2.5-time increase in the frequency of hand cleansing (p < 0.0001) that resulted in skin damage. An in vivo analysis of skin moisture and elasticity was also performed among 19 health workers and students. In general, skin moisture decreased with every cleansing, mainly after 2 h of washing with soap (p < 0.01), while skin elasticity only reduced after 4 h of treatment (p < 0.05). Alcohol-based solution or alcohol-based gel (70% ethanol, both) did not affect skin moisture or elasticity during testing.

CONCLUSION

It is known that the excessive use of soap or alcohol-based products causes dermatological issues. The present study demonstrates that non-medicated soap significantly affects skin moisture and elasticity, probably because the soap removes the hydrolipidic protective barrier, favoring transepidermal water loss, where the lack of the appropriate stratum corneum hydration also affects skin elasticity, mainly associated with changes in epidermal structure.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of plasma exeresis in periorbital rejuvenation using the Reviscometer®

BACKGROUND

Periorbital rejuvenation is performed through various methods. Recently, plasma exeresis has been suggested for the treatment of dermatochalasis and periorbital wrinkles.

AIMS

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of plasma exeresis in periorbital rejuvenation and palpebral laxity and assess its effectiveness using the Reviscometer^® .

PATIENTS/METHODS

Fifty-six women with mild-to-severe dermatochalasis and periorbital wrinkles volunteered to participate in this clinical trial. They received plasma exeresis thrice at one-month intervals. The efficacy of the intervention was evaluated according to the Cutaneous Resonance Running Time (CRRT) value changes, photographic changes, patients' satisfaction, and clinical side effects.

RESULTS

This study showed significant clinical improvements in dermatochalasis and palpebral laxity after treatment compared with the baseline (p < 0.001). Most of the participants had relative satisfaction, and no significant or permanent side effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest that plasma exeresis is a safe and effective nonsurgical method for periorbital rejuvenation. Furthermore, the procedure has no serious adverse effects if performed correctly and for the right patient.

Collagen Hydrolysate Prepared from Chicken By-Product as a Functional Polymer in Cosmetic Formulation

Chicken stomachs can be processed into collagen hydrolysate usable in cosmetic products. The aim of the study was to verify the effects of a carbopol gel formulation enriched with 1.0% (w/w) chicken hydrolysate on the properties of the skin in the periorbital area after regular application twice a day for eight weeks in volunteers ageed 50 ± 9 years. Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin elasticity and skin relief were evaluated. Overall, skin hydration increased by 11.82% and 9.45%, TEWL decreased by 25.70% and 17.80% (always reported for the right and left area). Generally, there was an increase in skin elasticity, a decrease in skin roughness, as the resonance times decreased by 85%. The average reduction of wrinkles was 35.40% on the right and 41.20% on the left. For all results, it can be seen that the longer the cosmetic gel formulation is applied, the better the results. Due to the positive effect on the quality and functionality of the skin, it is possible to apply the cosmetic gel formulation in the periorbital area. The advantage of the product with chicken collagen hydrolysate is also the biocompatibility with the skin and the biodegradability of the formulation.

Performance and Tolerability of a New Topical Dexpanthenol-Containing Emollient Line in Subjects with Dry Skin: Results from Three Randomized Studies

Three studies were conducted with three new dexpanthenol-containing emollients containing increasing lipid contents (Emollients 1–3) to assess their performances in healthy adults with dry skin. All three studies (N = 42 each) followed virtually the same design. A single skin application of the study product was performed followed by once-daily usage. Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin biomechanical properties, and lipid content of the stratum corneum (SC) were regularly assessed over the 28-day study period; a subset (N = 22) underwent a sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) challenge prior to product application. All three emollients were well tolerated and showed good performances with only minor differences in instrumental measurements. After single and prolonged once-daily applications of Emollients 1–3 to dry skin and dry SLS-damaged skin, skin hydration significantly increased from baseline (BL) (by 38.1–72.4% in unchallenged skin, p < 0.001 for all three). This was paralleled by significant increases in skin elasticity parameters. Usage of Emollients 1 and 3 caused increases from BL in SC cholesterol (by 9.8–12.5%, p < 0.05 for both) and SC free fatty acid levels (by 3.7–26.3%, p < 0.05 for both) at the end of the study. No sustained effects on TEWL were recorded. Our findings support the once-daily use of all three emollients in adults with dry skin.

Efficacy and safety of non-thermal nitrogen plasma versus long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser for hand rejuvenation

This randomized controlled study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of multiple treatment sessions of pulsed non-thermal atmospheric pressure nitrogen plasma compared with long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser for hand rejuvenation. To optimize the nitrogen plasma mode for rejuvenation, the relative intensity of reactive species and skin temperature was compared at different input powers and time periods. Twenty-five patients with mild-moderate photodamaged skin were recruited; one hand was randomly selected for eight weekly treatment sessions with plasma (two passes), while the other was subjected to three monthly treatments with laser (until erythema became obvious). A blinded dermatologist scored the mean wrinkle and dyschromia improvement at 1 and 2 months after the first treatment and 1 and 3 months after the last treatment. The patients' satisfaction and the biomechanical characteristics of the skin including cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT), melanin, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and hydration were evaluated. Clinically, both methods gave rise to a similar, significant improvement in wrinkles (49.09 ± 19.18% and 39.32 ± 18.21% after plasma and laser, respectively) and dyschromia (45.00 ± 26.32% and 30.62% ± 24.99% after plasma and laser, respectively) (P < 0.05). A significant decrease in CRRT and melanin was seen following treatment with either method (P < 0.05). Notably, plasma therapy led to a significant decrease in TEWL and boosted skin hydration. This is while laser therapy augmented the TEWL and reduced skin hydration. Our findings corroborate that cold plasma is as effective and safe as long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser, with less discomfort and dryness during treatment. The protocol was approved by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. IRCT20160320027109N4. Registered 9 April 2019 (This manuscript is only a part of this registered project.).

Self-perceived and objective measurements of facial puffiness in Chinese women

BACKGROUND

Facial puffiness, caused by mild or normal fluid retention, commonly experienced by women, may not pose a health risk, but it can be a cause of cosmetic concern. The objectives of this study were to determine whether self-perceived facial puffiness can be measured objectively.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 151 Chinese women between 20 and 68 years of age were recruited. Facial water content, skin thickness, and elasticity were measured at two time points within a day (visit one occurred when the participants perceived they had facial puffiness; visit two occurred when the participants perceived their facial puffiness had subsided). Participants were also given a rating scale to self-evaluate their puffiness and firmness at different regions of the face.

RESULTS

The participants could perceive a difference in facial puffiness between the two visits. Water content and skin thickness were significantly higher in all regions of the face for all participants during the first visit. Skin elasticity was also significantly different between visits one and two. There was a significant increase in water content and skin thickness in the lower eyelid region in women who were older than 40 years.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to show that self-perceived facial puffiness can be measured objectively and that skin elasticity can change significantly when facial puffiness subsides.

EEMCO Guidance for the in vivo Assessment of Biomechanical Properties of the Human Skin and Its Annexes: Revisiting Instrumentation and Test Modes

Biomechanics of the skin is an important subject in skin research. It has been studied for many decades involving various technologies and methods to characterize and quantify mechanical properties of the skin under different in vivo conditions. The present EEMCO paper reviews the current rel-evant information, providing practical orientation to researchers dedicated to in vivo assessment of biomechanics of skin and its annexes. We discuss the available non-invasive instruments, including their principles and variables. A correspondence between the descriptors nomenclature proposed by Agache and the designation for the suction-based standard instruments is proposed. The addressed properties include skin softness/stiffness, firmness, elasticity, elastic and viscoelastic properties, extensibility, resilience, anisotropy, acoustical shock wave hardness, friction (in relation to topographic properties), thickness, fiber/stress mechanics (bending, cyclic, tensile, fatigue, or torsion), and hardness. We provide the relation of these properties to biomechanical descriptors and in some cases to SI units. Practical guidance for the proper use of these instruments, limitations, and possible interpretations are provided, while discussing the meaning of descriptive or "phenomenological" variables. For studies intended to quantify the effect of an intervention with regard to mechanical properties, we recommend a minimum of 30-40 participants, based on normal distribution of the data sets. Some important limitations are recognized, including the lack of standardization of procedures and calibration of instruments, which compromises the relevance and real nature of the descriptors/parameters obtained with these devices. The present work highlights an approach to a better practice and a science-supported biomechanical assessment of human skin, hair, and nails.

Influences of age, ethnic group, and skin sites on a provisory skin marking, experimentally induced, in vivo

BACKGROUND

To study capacity of skin to being imprinted by a marking head rapidly applied (10 seconds) onto the skin under a standardized pressure (15 kPa).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Referential photographs of skin markings, resulting from different times of application serve at grading the extent of skin imprints. The imprinting tool, equipped with 5 linear bulbs of different sizes but same thickness (1 mm), was applied onto the cheeks of 641 women of different ages (18-80 years) of 3 different ethnic groups. In the cohort of 198 Caucasian women, the marking head was pressed onto 3 different sites (outer arm, cheek, and dorsal forearm) and the kinetics of skin recovery from cheek marking was recorded on a smaller and younger part of this Caucasian cohort, ie, 141 Caucasian women, aged 18-59 years.

RESULTS

The recorded intensities of skin markings were found highly correlated with age in all 3 studied ethnic groups (Chinese, African-American, and Caucasian). Caucasian women seem more sensitive to the marking and the kinetics of recovery from such imprint was found highly dependent from its intensity, ie, the higher the grades, the slower the recovery. In Caucasian women, intensities were different between skin sites, where arm showed higher resistance to marking. Possible impact of photo-aging on the decreased skin resistance to such provoked deformation is likely of minor amplitude, as compared to the one induced by chronological aging.

CONCLUSION

This method offers a new vision on skin aging, in its variable response to a standard deformation that appears mostly driven by chronological aging.

Excessive Weight Favours Skin Physiology - Up to a Point: Another Expression of the Obesity Paradox

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Recently classified as an epidemic by the WHO, obesity (as well as the state of being overweight) clearly affects significant populations across all ages. The relationship between obesity and some diseases (e.g. cardiovascular ones) is known, although many paradoxes remain to be explained. Very little information is available, however, regarding its impact on skin physiology and skin disease. This study aims to examine the influence of excessive weight on epidermal hydration and transepidermal water loss, key variables of skin water balance and skin biomechanics.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 89 healthy female volunteers was selected and divided into 4 groups, according to their BMI (body mass index), as normal (control), overweight, obese (I and II), and morbid. Skin physiology was quantitatively assessed in all individuals in 4 anatomical areas using non-invasive biometrical analysis by reference instrumentation. Descriptive and comparative statistics were applied, adopting a confidence level of 95%.

RESULTS

A non-linear alteration for all variables was detected as a function of BMI.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that excessive weight might favour skin performance within certain limits, reflecting a particular adaptation of the skin to the weight gain and body contour.

Quantitating the lateral skin stiffness by a new and versatile electro-mechanical instrument. Preliminary studies

BACKGROUND

A new electro-mechanical device for measuring the lateral stiffness of the skin is now available. It basically allows to recording the forces that the skin opposes to a lateral displacement (1-2 mm) of a pinching type movement. Preliminary assays of this device to various skin sites and an artificial substrate aimed at defining its major characteristics (sensitivity, reproducibility, variations according to skin site).

METHODS

The calibration of the device (Khelometer^® ) and assessment of its reproducibility were carried out through the use of elastometer substrates of various stiffness's. The device was then used, in vivo, at different skin sites (scalp, inner and outer forearms, cheeks) of 213 healthy Japanese women of various ages. The short-time effect of a hydrating regimen (7% glycerol) was recorded on the outer forearm.

RESULTS

This new device offers an appreciable reproducibility in vitro and in vivo (coefficient of variation of 2-4% and 5-14%, respectively). Unlike other biophysical methods, the Khelometer^® can be easily applied onto the human scalp that shows a higher stiffness than the two other skin sites, increasing with age and presence of alopecia. In all the three studied skin sites, the impact of age leads to significantly higher lateral skin stiffness (LSS, expressed as N/mm) values. The latter were found significantly different between the two sides of the forearms where the outer (sun-exposed) side showed statistically slightly higher LSS, than the unexposed inner side. LSS values found on cheeks (≈0.5 N/mm) were about four times lower than those of the scalp (≈2 N/mm) and about half those of forearms (≈1 N/mm). The effect of a 7% glycerol based formula was recorded 20 min post application onto the forearm, leading to a slight drop in LSS (approx. 15%) as compared to a vehicle-applied skin site.

CONCLUSION

These preliminary studies clearly indicate that this new device, applicable to any skin site, offers appreciable assets such as sensitivity and reproducibility. Accordingly, it appears as a new approach in the non-invasive biophysical measurements of the skin surface, in both advanced and applied research investigations.

About the in vivo quantitation of skin anisotropy

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Human skin anisotropy is difficult to quantify. The Cutiscan^® , is allegedly, the first biometrical system to provide information on the elastic and viscoelastic properties, as well as on anisotropy and directionality of the human skin in vivo. Thus, this study aims to contribute to characterize this new device and its applicability, and to compare its behavior with two other well-known devices-the Cutometer^® and the Reviscometer^® .

METHODS

Measurements were conducted with each device in three different anatomical sites (forehead, forearm and leg) of 20 female volunteers engaged after informed consent. The participants in the study were aged 19-73 years (mean age 37 ± 18.7 years old), and were divided in two groups (n = 10), based on their age - Group I, mean age 22 ± 1.3 years; Group II, mean age 52 ± 13.7 years.

RESULTS

All devices were useful tools to explore the anatomical and the age dependant changes in biomechanical terms, showing different discriminative capacities. Interesting correlations were established between the variables provided by the equipment.

CONCLUSION

The Cutiscan^® descriptors delivered excellent relationships with those from Cutometer^® and Reviscometer^® , while providing more detailed information about skin anisotropy through a full 360° analysis.

Facial expression under stiff stratum corneum leads to strain concentrations, followed by residual wrinkle formation

OBJECTIVE

Computer simulation studies of skin models, which indicate skin compression in the same manner as facial expressions, have suggested that stratum corneum could control skin-folding patterns, which may play an essential role in wrinkle formation. However, it is not clear to what extent the mechanics of stratum corneum influence wrinkle formation in vivo. The aim of this study was to verify that stratum corneum could control strain distribution during facial expressions, which in turn leads to wrinkle formation.

METHODS

In experiments in vivo, volunteers were instructed to smile under 10% or 80% relative humidity (dry or humid conditions, respectively). Skin movement around their eye corners during smiling was captured by a high-speed video camera. Particle-tracking velocimetry was applied to video recordings to analyse skin strain distribution. Also, wrinkle volumes before or after smiling were measured using replicas.

RESULTS

With smiling under dry conditions, high strain was localized to form crease-shaped wrinkles whereas, under humid conditions, localized strain was dispersed. Furthermore, increased wrinkle volume after smiling was promoted under dry conditions.

CONCLUSION

Because exposure to dry or humid conditions in the short term could affect only stratum corneum mechanics, the present results indicated that stratum corneum could be considered to be responsible for localized strain during facial expressions. This strain is followed by residual wrinkle formation. Accumulation of residual wrinkles will produce permanent wrinkles in the long term. Improving the mechanics of stratum corneum might be an effective approach in wrinkle formation prevention.

Acetyl hexapeptide-3 in a cosmetic formulation acts on skin mechanical properties - clinical study

abstract Acetyl hexapeptide-3 has been used in anti-aging topical formulations aimed at improving skin appearance. However, few basic studies address its effects on epidermis and dermis, when vehiculated in topical formulations. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the clinical efficacy of acetyl hexapeptide-3 using biophysical techniques. For this purpose, formulations with and without acetyl hexapeptide-3 were applied to the ventral forearm and the face area of forty female volunteers. Skin conditions were evaluated after 2 and 4-week long daily applications, by analyzing the stratum corneum water content and the skin mechanical properties, using three instruments, the Corneometer(r) CM 825, CutometerSEM 575 and ReviscometerRV600. All formulations tested increased the stratum corneum water content in the face region, which remained constant until the end of the study. In contrast, only formulations containing acetyl hexapeptide-3 exhibit a significant effect on mechanical properties, by decreasing the anisotropy of the face skin. No significant effects were observed in viscoelasticity parameters. In conclusion, the effects of acetyl hexapeptide-3 on the anisotropy of face skin characterize the compound as an effective ingredient for improving conditions of the cutaneous tissue, when used in anti-aging cosmetic formulations.

The effect of dietary and/or cosmetic argan oil on postmenopausal skin elasticity

Background

During menopause, the decrease of estrogenic secretion induces the disruption of skin functioning, thus causing the decline in skin elasticity characteristic of skin aging. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in postmenopausal women the effect of daily consumption and/or application of argan oil on skin elasticity.

Materials and methods

Sixty postmenopausal women consumed butter during the stabilization period and were randomly divided into two groups for the intervention period: the treatment group of 30 participants received dietary argan oil, the control group of 30 participants received olive oil, and both groups applied cosmetic argan oil in the left volar forearm during a 60-day period. Assessments of skin elasticity parameters, ie, the three R-parameters (R2 or gross-elasticity of the skin, R5 or net elasticity of the skin, and R7 or biological elasticity), and the resonance running time (RRT) at both volar forearms of the two groups were performed during three visits: before starting oils consumption and application, after 30 days of oils consumption and application, and after 60 days of oils consumption and application.

Results

The consumption of argan oil led to a significant increase of gross-elasticity of the skin (R2) (P<0.001), net elasticity of the skin (R5) (P<0.001), biological elasticity (R7) (P<0.001), and a significant decrease of RRT (P=0.002). The application of argan oil led to a significant increase of gross-elasticity of the skin (R2) (P<0.001), net elasticity of the skin (R5) (P<0.001), biological elasticity (R7) (P=0.001), and a significant decrease of RRT (P<0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the daily consumption and/or topical application of argan oil have an anti-aging effect on the skin demonstrated by the improvement of skin elasticity, characterized by an increase of R-parameters (R2, R5, and R7) and a decrease of RRT.

Efficacy of micronutrient supplementation on skin aging and seasonal variation: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study

Background

Several studies have confirmed dramatic changes in skin surface parameters during the winter months. Although there are many studies supporting the positive effects of topical treatment, there are no published studies demonstrating the effects of oral supplementation in the prevention of negative skin changes during winter. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an oral micronutrient supplement in preventing the negative effects of winter weather on skin quality using noninvasive biometrologic instruments.

Methods

This study included 80 healthy female volunteers aged 35–55 years with phototype II–IV skin. Randomization was balanced. Two tablets of a micronutrient supplement (Perfectil® Platinum) or placebo were administered once daily for 4 months. The volunteers were examined at baseline, after 4 months, and 6 weeks after termination of treatment (month 5.5). The evaluation included skin microrelief by Visioscan® as the main outcome, and the secondary outcomes were results on standard macrophotography, skin tension by Reviscometer®, skin high-frequency ultrasound, and self-assessment.

Results

For all pseudoroughness and microrelief indicators, there was a significant increase from baseline to month 4 in the placebo group (P<0.05) but no change in the active group. Descriptive statistics for the mean minimum, mean maximum, and minimum to maximum ratio on the nonexposed study zone showed a significant and dramatic difference between baseline and month 4 and between baseline and month 5.5 (P<0.05) in the active group, indicating decreasing anisotropy of the skin. High-frequency ultrasound on the exposed study zone revealed that skin thickness was significantly decreased in the placebo group during winter but was stable in the treated group (P<0.01). The photography scaling and self-assessment questionnaire revealed no significant changes in either group.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the skin is prone to seasonal changes during winter, particularly in exposed areas. The data also indicate that oral supplementation can be a safe treatment, with no serious side effects, and may prevent or even eliminate the negative effects of winter on the skin.

Computational and experimental characterization of skin mechanics: identifying current challenges and future directions

The characterization of skin mechanics has many clinical implications and has been an active area of research for the past few decades. Biomechanical models have evolved from earlier empirical models to state-of-the-art structural models that provide linkage between tissue microstructure and macroscopic stress-strain response. To maximize the accuracy and predictive capabilities of such computational models, there is a need to reliably identify often a large number of unknown model parameters. This is critically dependent on the availability of experimental data that cover an extensive range of different deformation modes, and quantification of internal structural features, such as collagen orientation. To this end, future challenges should include the ongoing development of noninvasive instrumentation and imaging modalities for in vivo skin measurements. We highlight the important concept of tightly integrating computational models, instrumentation, and imaging modalities into a single platform to investigate skin biomechanics.

Improvement of the methods for skin mechanical properties evaluation through correlation between different techniques and factor analysis

BACKGROUND

In the past decades, many instruments have been developed to measure skin elasticity and firmness. The offer is extensive and is constantly increasing, becoming difficult to decide which equipment and mechanical property measurement are better to portrait the desired characteristics. The aim of this study was to compare and correlate parameters assessed with different probes, based on different methodologies, to understand which probe characterizes each skin elasticity property.

METHODS

Measurements were performed in the abdomen region of 34 female volunteers, with three different probes: Cutometer(®) SEM575, Reviscometer(®) RVM600 and Frictiometer(®) FR700. Statistical data analysis was performed by Factor Analysis on IBM SPSS Statistics 17.0.

RESULTS

Frictiometer(®) and Reviscometer(®) measurements showed significant correlations with Cutometer's Uf, Ua, Ur and Ue parameters. Ue was strongly and significantly correlated to Uf and Ur. Ua was strongly and significantly correlated with Ur, Uf and Ue. Reviscometer(®) measurements were similar along the same axis, and measurements performed in a specific direction are significantly correlated with age.

CONCLUSION

A simpler and faster methodology for the complete assessment of elasticity and firmness of human skin is possible, in alternative to elaborate and time consuming methods, involving several equipments and parameters. The simpler methodology does not reduce the information obtained about the skin properties.

Cutaneous resonance running time is decreased in psoriatic lesions

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Psoriasis is characterized by lower stratum corneum (SC) hydration and dermal inflammation. Both SC hydration and cutaneous inflammation influence cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT). However, the characteristics of CRRT in psoriatic lesions are largely unknown. In the present study, we assessed whether changes in CRRT occur in psoriatic lesions in Chinese.

METHODS

A Reviscometer RVM600 and Corneometer CM 825 were used to measure CRRTs and SC hydration, respectively, in psoriatic lesions (psoriasis vulgaris) on the extensor of forearm in 111 subjects (58 men, 53 women), aged 23-80 years (50.42 ± 1.23 years). The contralateral uninvolved sites served as control.

RESULTS

In comparison with contralateral uninvolved sites, CRRTs in psoriatic lesions were reduced significantly in all directions. There was neither gender nor age difference in the extent of reduction in CRRTs. However, the reduction of CRRTs varied with measurement directions. Positive correlations of SC hydration with CRRTs were found at some directions in uninvolved and involved sites in young men whereas CRRTs in psoriatic lesions were not correlated with SC hydration in either aged or young women. Moreover, CRRT at 0-6 o'clock direction was positively correlated with SC hydration in involved sites of aged men.

CONCLUSION

Cutaneous resonance running times are decreased in psoriatic lesions. Reduction of CRRTs varies with measurement directions, but not gender or age. Measurement of CRRTs could be another valuable approach to assess the severity of psoriasis and the efficacy of its treatment.

Cutaneous resonance running time varies with age, body site and gender in a normal Chinese population

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

One phenomenon of skin aging is loss of cutaneous elasticity. Measurement of cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT) is a method to assess skin elasticity. Yet, information regarding the directional changes of CRRT associated with age, body sites and gender is not yet available. In the present study, we assessed whether changes in CRRT vary with age, body sites and gender in a normal Chinese population.

METHODS

A Reviscometer was used to measure CRRTs in various directions on the left dorsal hand, the forehead and the left canthus of 806 normal Chinese volunteers, aged 2.5-94 years.

RESULTS

With aging, CRRTs decreased in all directions on the hand, the forehead and the canthus. A more dramatic reduction in CRRTs on the forehead and the canthus was observed in both the 2-8 and the 3-9 o'clock directions. CRRTs in males aged 11-20 years were longer than those in females in some directions on all three body sites. Females aged between 21 years and 40 years showed longer CRRTs than males in some directions of the hand. There were no gender differences in subjects aged 0-10 (except on the canthus) and those over 80 years old.

CONCLUSION

CRRTs vary with age, body sites and gender.

A reliable, non-invasive measurement tool for anisotropy in normal skin and scar tissue

BACKGROUND

Anisotropy of the skin varies depending on different locations and pathological conditions. Currently, no reliable non-invasive measurement tool is available for tissue anisotropy. The Reviscometer is an anisotropy measurement tool that measures the resonance running time (RRT) of a shock wave. This study was initiated to establish the reliability of the Reviscometer on normal skin and scars, and to provide basic information on tissue alignment in normal skin and scars.

METHODS

Fifty volunteers and 50 patients underwent measurements on normal skin and scars, respectively. All measurements were performed by the same two observers. Measurements on normal skin were performed on the forearm, upper arm, and abdomen.

RESULTS

The results showed that the intraclass correlation coefficient of the inter-observer reliability was > or =0.79 on normal skin and > or =0.86 on scars. In normal skin, the highest mean RRT was found on the abdomen (156.4+/-48.8), followed by the upper arm (123.2+/-33.6) and the forearm (112.5+/-24.3). A significantly lower mean RRT was found in scars (52.3+/-21.9) compared with normal skin (91.6+/-37.7).

CONCLUSION

Reviscometer measurements were reliable for normal skin and scars. In addition, clear differences between scars and normal skin but also within different locations on normal skin were identified. The Reviscometer can be considered for the evaluation of the efficacy of different treatments.

[Objective methods for analyzing outcomes in research studies on cosmetic dermatology]

Cosmetic dermatology is a field of medicine that is in constant development; therefore, the use of objective methods for validating the findings of scientific studies is crucial. The most commonly used techniques in the majority of these studies include histopathology, immunohistochemistry, morphometry, stereology, digital photography, biometry, optical profilometry and confocal microscopy. The objective of this review was to provide an update on the principal methods used as tools for analyzing outcomes and also to provide the dermatologist with means of sharpening his/her critical judgement with respect to the publications and presentations that use subjective evaluation methods.

Decreased cutaneous resonance running time in cured leprosy subjects

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Leprosy prominently involves both the skin and peripheral neural tissues and some symptoms persist after microbial cure. Because alterations in the dermis also occur in leprosy, we assessed here whether there were changes in cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT), a parameter that is influenced by collagen properties, in cured leprosy subjects.

METHODS

A reviscometer was used to measure the CRRT at various directions on the dorsal hand and the flexural forearms of 76 cured leprosy subjects aged 50-85 years and 68 age-matched normal subjects.

RESULTS

In comparison to normal subjects, CRRTs on the hands and the forearms were significantly reduced in all directions in cured leprosy, except at the 1-7, 2-8 and 3-9 o'clock directions on the forearms. CRRTs were reduced significantly at both the 4-10 and 5-11 o'clock directions on the forearm in lepromatous (73.33 +/- 4.19 at 4-10 o'clock and 67.44 +/- 2.71 at 5-11 o'clock direction) and borderline lepromatous types (77.58 +/- 5.84 at 4-10 o'clock and 79.85 +/- 6.81 at 5-11 o'clock direction) as compared with normal (143.10 +/- 7.75 at 4-10 o'clock and 125.18 +/- 8.14 at 5-11 o'clock direction). On the hand, CRRTs at all directions, except that at 4-10 o'clock direction, were also significantly reduced in lepromatous and borderline lepromatous types in comparison with normal. Significant differences in CRRT at some directions were found among the various subtypes of leprosy.

CONCLUSION

CRRTs were abnormal in the cured leprosy subjects as a whole, but varied with leprosy subtypes, which suggested that the extent of reduction of CRRTs correlates with the severity of immune alteration. These results suggest that CRRT measurements could be a useful approach to quantify the extent of some residual abnormalities in cured leprosy and perhaps could also be used to evaluate the efficacy of treatment.

Hydrophilic and lipophilic moisturizers have similar penetration profiles but different effects on SC water distribution in vivo

Dry skin is often treated with hydrophilic and/or lipophilic moisturizers. Hydrophilic moisturizers must penetrate the stratum corneum (SC) deeply to function properly, whereas lipophilic moisturizers should remain in the upper SC layers. In this study, both types of moisturizers were applied on volunteers for 3 h, after which the relative amount of moisturizer and the water distribution in the SC were determined using attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy in combination with tape-stripping. The results show that while hydrophilic moisturizers penetrate much more readily than lipophilic moisturizers, the latter are abundantly present in the upper regions of the SC. It was also observed that a 3-h treatment with lipophilic moisturizer did not result in increased water levels in the SC, whereas hydrophilic moisturizers retained water where they are located. The results suggest that upon prolonged application, adequate amounts of moisturizer can be obtained in those regions where they may cause moisturization in the central part of the SC. However, a single application of 3 h is probably too short to exert increased hydration as measured with ATR-FTIR.

Kinetics of moisturizing and firming effects of cosmetic formulations

The assessment of cosmetic efficacy is rarely performed in studies comparing different concentrations of active compounds. The aim of the present study was to determine the skin hydrating and the skin firming dose-response effects of cosmetic formulations enriched in compounds derived from algae and fish collagen. A series of factors were studied including the type of formulation (cream or serum), the concentration in active ingredients, the effect of repetitive applications, as well as any residual effect of the formulations after stopping their applications. The serum enriched in marine compounds showed a better moisturizing effect in short term. The cream appeared more active later, particularly following repeat applications. A sustained tensor (firming) effect was observed during treatment with both the lotion and the cream. However, no remnant firming effect was perceived after stopping treatment.