Changes in surface configuration of the skin caused by ageing and application of cosmetics: three‐dimensional analysis according to a new system based on image analysis and Fourier transformation

Abstract

Synopsis The surface configuration of the skin, as characterized by surface furrows and plateaux, is known to change with ageing and skin condition. There have been many attempts to analyse the surface configuration in order to evaluate the effect of skin care products. However, the systems proposed up to now are insufficient to obtain three-dimensional data. A system based on image analysis and Fourier transformation has been developed. By using this system, we can make a quick and quantitative analysis of the three-dimensional surface configuration of the skin. This system was applied to measure changes in the surface configuration with ageing, and to clarify the effects of cosmetic cream. As a result, it was found that the furrows become less clear, become parallel in one direction and the texture becomes coarse and irregular, as ageing continues. These changes are believed to correspond to deterioration of the metabolic and moisturizing functions of the skin. It was also found that the furrows become clear and the texture becomes finer after the application of cream than before. This is believed to be the result of the improvement of the skin condition due to the moisturizing effect of the cream.