A team of researchers from Stanford University has delved into the intricate world of skin sensations, uncovering the mechanisms responsible for that feeling of “tightness” after using cleansers and the subsequent sensation of “softness” achieved through moisturizers. Through an extensive study that combines insights from skin layers, neural pathways, and feedback from thousands of women, these scientists have constructed a clear framework to demystify the biomechanical neural processes governing our experiences with various skin treatments.
In their quest to unveil the scientific underpinnings of these common sensations, Reinhold H. Dauskardt, the Ruth G. and William K. Bowes Professor in Stanford’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering, and his dedicated team employed a multifaceted approach. This approach encompassed in-vitro biomechanical testing, computational neural stimulation modeling, and the collection of self-assessments from a vast pool of participants.
The Journey into Neural Pathways
When we apply a topical treatment to our skin, it brings about modifications in specific skin layers. These alterations set in motion cutaneous mechanoreceptors, which transmit information to slowly adapting type I (SAI) neurons and subsequently relay it to the central nervous system. Various factors trigger these neural responses, including the contracting effect of drying cleansers on the outermost skin layer, known as the stratum corneum. Similarly, the application of lotions or creams can induce swelling of this layer.
Key Revelations and Significance
The research has unveiled a noteworthy connection between the physical stress experienced in the stratum corneum, resulting from post-cleansing drying or moisturizing, and the activity of neurons situated deeper within the skin, near the dermal-epidermal junction. The neural stimulation model they developed has further solidified this correlation. Predictions from this model regarding the firing rates of SAI neurons in full-thickness skin align with feedback regarding the sensation of “tightness” obtained from surveys conducted among 2,000 women in France and 720 women in China. Remarkably, these sensations were reported to persist even up to 12 hours after the application of the skincare products.
According to the authors of this groundbreaking research, these findings provide an encompassing framework to comprehend the biomechanical neural activation mechanism that underpins the subjective experiences associated with topical skin treatments.
For more in-depth insights into this research, you can refer to the article titled “Sensational Science: Why Our Skin Feels ‘Tight’ After Using a Facial Cleanser.”
Reference: “Sensory neuron activation from topical treatments modulates the sensorial perception of human skin” by Ross Bennett-Kennett, Joseph Pace, Barbara Lynch, Yegor Domanov, Gustavo S Luengo, Anne Potter, and Reinhold H Dauskardt, 26 September 2023, PNAS Nexus. DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad292
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Skin Sensations
What is the main focus of the research on skin sensations?
The primary focus of this research is to understand the underlying biomechanical neural processes that lead to sensations like “tightness” after using cleansers and “softness” following the application of moisturizers.
How did the scientists conduct their study?
The researchers at Stanford University utilized a multi-faceted approach, including in-vitro biomechanical testing and computational neural stimulation modeling. They also collected feedback from thousands of women who had experienced these skin sensations.
What happens when we apply topical treatments to our skin?
When topical treatments are applied, they modify specific skin layers, triggering cutaneous mechanoreceptors. These receptors send data to specific neurons, particularly slowly adapting type I (SAI) neurons, and subsequently relay this information to the central nervous system.
What factors contribute to neural responses related to skin sensations?
Several factors can initiate these neural responses, such as the contracting effect of drying cleansers on the outermost skin layer (stratum corneum) and the swelling of this layer caused by the application of lotions or creams.
Were there any significant findings from this research?
Yes, the study revealed a significant connection between the physical stress experienced in the stratum corneum and the activity of deeper skin neurons near the dermal-epidermal junction. Predictions from the neural stimulation model aligned with user feedback, even up to 12 hours post-application.
Why is this research important?
This research provides a comprehensive framework to understand the biomechanical neural activation mechanism behind the subjective experiences associated with topical skin treatments. It enhances our knowledge of skincare products’ effects on the skin and user perceptions.
1 comment
Great article! Scientists study skin feelin’ after washin’! Cool neural stuff.