Atomic force microscopy characterization of corneocytes: effect of moisturizer on their topology, rigidity, and friction

  1. R. M. Gaikwad1,
  2. S. I. Vasilyev1,
  3. S. Datta3,
  4. I. Sokolov1,2

Article first published online: 25 MAR 2010

DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0846.2010.00446.x

Issue

Skin Research and Technology

Skin Research and Technology

Volume 16, Issue 3, pages 275–282, August 2010

Additional Information

How to Cite

Gaikwad, R. M., Vasilyev, S. I., Datta, S. and Sokolov, I. (2010), Atomic force microscopy characterization of corneocytes: effect of moisturizer on their topology, rigidity, and friction. Skin Research and Technology, 16: 275–282. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0846.2010.00446.x

Author Information

  1. 1

    Department of Physics, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA

  2. 2

    Nanoengineering and Biotechnology Laboratories Center (NABLAB), Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA

  3. 3

    Procter & Gamble Corp., Cincinnati, OH, USA

*Address: Igor Sokolov Department of Physics Clarkson University 8 Clarkson Ave Potsdam NY 13699 USA Tel: +1 315 268 2375 Fax: +1 315 268 6610 e-mail: isokolov@clarkson.edu

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 1 JUL 2010
  2. Article first published online: 25 MAR 2010
  3. Accepted for publication 23 January 2010

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Keywords:

  • skin flakes;
  • corneocyte;
  • atomic force microscopy;
  • Young's modulus;
  • topology;
  • friction

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.

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