ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION This chapter will provide a very general overview to the application of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy and FTIR imaging microspectroscopy in the study of human corneocytes. Specifically this review will demonstrate the utility of these biophysical techniques for monitoring the molecular structure, chemical composition, and biological maturation processes occurring in human corneocytes, as followed through changes in the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) content of these epidermal cells. The initial report of this method was recently published and the current review will build upon this work (1). Some new applications of IR microscopy and imaging to quantitatively follow changes in corneocytes NMF levels as a function of external stresses, such as water washing of the skin, will be demonstrated. In addition, some preliminary results showing correlations between in vivo skin hydration with these new IR measures of NMF levels in corneocytes will be described.
