Effect of Natural and Synthetic Fibers and Film and Moisture Content on Stratum Corneum Hydration in an Occlusive System

Abstract

The effects of fabric made from natural and synthetic fibers and film on transepidermal water loss (tewl) from the stratum corneum (sc) were investigated using an occluded system. Sixteen fabrics differing in fiber type and construction were placed on the volar forearm of 35 female subjects in a dry state (standard moisture regain) and a wetted state. Each fabric was in place for 40 minutes before tewl was measured. There was no statistically significant difference in tewl measurements on a control skin site from the beginning to the end of the 75-minute test session in a controlled conditioned environment. Placement of dry fabrics on the skin did not significantly affect the hydration level of the sc, though all dry fabrics did increase the hydration level slightly. Wetted wool and cotton fabrics significantly hydrated the sc when levels were compared to either normal skin or skin covered by dry fabrics. Of the seven synthetic fiber fabrics tested in a wetted state, three (acrylic, ptfe, and spun nylon) significantly increased the sc hydration level. These three fabrics and the natural fiber fabrics had comparable wetted moisture content.