The effect of superficial hydration on the mechanical properties of human skin in vivo: implications for plastic surgery.

摘要: The influence of topically applied tap water on the mechanical properties human skin was studied in vivo by applying to ventral aspect forearms 18 healthy volunteers for 10 or 20 minutes and then measuring distensibility, elastic retraction, hysteresis. Significant increases resilient hysteresis were noted after soaking. Most these findings already apparent minutes. This study shows that epidermis plays a significant role determining skin. Possible practical implications superficial hydration plastic surgery such as tissue expansion larger excisions are briefly discussed.