Open AccessAtomic force microscopy characterization of corneocytes: effect of moisturizer on their topology, rigidity, and friction
Author(s) -
Gaikwad R. M.,
Vasilyev S. I.,
Datta S.,
Sokolov I.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
skin research and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.521
H-Index - 69
eISSN - 1600-0846
pISSN - 0909-752X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0846.2010.00446.x
Subject(s) - corneocyte , atomic force microscopy , rigidity (electromagnetism) , materials science , characterization (materials science) , moisturizer , nanotechnology , stratum corneum , microscopy , biomedical engineering , composite material , chemistry , medicine , pathology , food science
Background/purpose: Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a novel technique for skin characterization. Objectives: To develop AFM tests for characterization of the outermost epidermis layer, corneocytes. As an example, the effect of moisturizer on the corneocyte properties is studied. Methods and materials: Topology, rigidity, and friction (between individual corneocytes and AFM probe) of the top layer of corneocytes were measured by means of Veeco DM3100 AFM. Quench ™ moisturizing cream was applied daily on the forearm of five volunteers for a period of 9 days. The skin flakes were collected before and after the treatment using Cuderm tape strips. No additional treatment of flakes was performed before the measurements. Results: A protocol for the AFM study of corneocytes is developed. After the treatment, we observed overall smoothening of the corneocyte surface, an increase of friction, and a decrease of rigidity (the Young modulus). Conclusion: AFM can be used as a very sensitive tool for early detection of changes in corneocytes.