Application of Cutometer area parameters for the study of human skin fatigue

Abstract

The age-related decrease of skin elasticity results in larger fatigue of adult skin than young skin after applying multiple stress at one and the same anatomic region. The aim of this study was to compare the informativeness of Cutometer standard R-parameters with new area parameters regarding the age-related changes in human skin fatigue. A total of 40 healthy volunteers aged 12-82 years were studied. Mechanical parameters of the skin were determined using a non-invasive suction skin elasticity meter (Cutometer). Measurements were made on the temporal region and volar forearm. Skin mechanical parameters analyzed by Win-Cutometer MPA software were R3, R4 and R9 (R-parameters), and F2 and F3 (area parameters). The adult skin was characterized by significantly higher values of R4, R9 and F2, and lower F3 compared with young skin. R3 was not significantly altered. There were not any sex-related differences. F2 correlated positively with parameters R3, R4 and R9, while F3 correlated negatively with R4. A positive correlation within the parameters R3, R4 and R9 was established at both anatomic regions. The non-invasive method applied can be useful for objective and quantitative investigation of age-related changes in skin fatigue and evaluation of the effects of cosmetic and anti-aging topical products. The mechanical parameters R4 and F3 are most indicative of human skin fatigue.