The stratum corneum (SC) is the superior layer of the epidermis. Its role is to ensure the physical protection of the skin. Indeed, the SC is mainly constituted of juxtaposed matured corneocytes. Lipids are secreted to fill all spaces between the cells. Corneocytes are also linked by protein cells junctions that maximized cell cohesion. Corneodesmosomes, of which desmoglein-1 (DSG1) is one of the main proteins, are cell membrane structures that garantee cellular junctions. This SC organization constitutes a waterproof layer and ensures its barrier function which plays an essential role in maintaining cutaneous hydration. A better understanding of the SC state under dehydrated conditions is a major asset developing skin care products that improve skin’s water content. The aim of this study was to characterize the SC state in dehydrated and hydrated skin conditions. Volunteers were subjected to 2 hydration conditions: first with no application of moisturizing product during 7 days, then with application during 3 weeks of moisturizing product. A corneometer® measurement shows an increase in water content in the hydrated skin condition. SC hydration measured by the Moisture SC® increases in the hydrated state. A bioimpedancemetry measurement also highlights a more important presence of water in the upper layers of the epidermis in the hydrated condition. These results on the better water presence in hydrated skin condition are associated with a lower transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurement, inducing a better cutaneous barrier function. DSG-1 immunochemistry on tape strips reveals that in hydrated condition DSG-1 is increased and that cells are more cohesive. All these results validate a lack of DGS-1 in dehydrated skin and an increase in TEWL and lower water contents in the upper skin layers.

ESDR252 - Characterization of the stratum corneum in situation of dehydrated skins

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.