An atomistic model of the human stratum corneum: permeation through the long periodicity phase—effect of a pro-penetrant

Abstract

The stratum corneum (SC) layer of the human skin is the outermost and primary barrier against chemical topical exposure. The ability of a chemical to pass the SC is a key point for risk assessment and development of cosmetic ingredients. A simulation model of the skin permeability mechanism is therefore of significant translational importance. From neutron diffraction data, the SC peaks comprise a short periodicity phase (SPP) with a repeat distance of 6 nm, and a long periodicity phase (LPP) with a repeat distance of 13 nm.