Does lipid sampling with the Sebutape technique disturb the skin physiology?

Background/aims: Lipid sampling with the Sebutape technique takes at least 1 h in order to obtain a representative follicular pattern. Subsequent morphometric analysis reveals different parameters on the sebum excretion. However, application of Sebutape may disturb the normal skin physiology, and hence sebum excretion, due to an occlusive effect. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether collection of skin surface lipids with Sebutape influences skin parameters such as TEWL, skin temperature and stratum corneum hydration. Methods: On the forehead, a comparison was made between skin sites covered with a Sebutape and contralateral control sites. Prior to removal of the Sebutape, skin temperature under the tape was measured. Immediately after removal of the tape, TEWL and skin capacitance were estimated. The same parameters were determined on the control sites. Furthermore, a comparison was made on the forearms between the occlusion effect of Sebutape application and a complete occlusion with a plastic tape. Hydration of the skin was measured as function of time after removal of both occlusive applications. Results: We detected only a very weak influence of Sebutape application on TEWL and skin hydration. Skin temperature was not affected. A significant difference was detected between the application of Sebutape and the application of a plastic occlusion. Conclusions: Lipid sampling with Sebutape has only minor or no influence on the skin physiology as demonstrated by TEWL, skin temperature and stratum corneum capacitance measurements.