ABSTRACT
In general, occlusion may increase percutaneous absorption of applied compounds, but with exception (Bucks et al. 1988; Bucks et al. 1991; Bucks and Maibach 1999). It has been used in dermatology to increase topical corticosteroids effi cacy (Scholtz 1961; Sulzberger and Witten 1961). However, it also obstructs normal ventilation of the skin surface; increases stratum corneum (SC) hydration, and hence may compromise skin barrier function (Agner and Serup 1993; Kligman 1996; Warner et al. 1999; Kligman 2000). Evaluation and investigation of the impact of occlusion on barrier function are important in skin physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and dermatology (Zhai and Maibach 2002). This updated chapter from Zhai and Maibach (2004) emphasizes the effects of occlusion on skin barrier function, particularly, as defi ned with objective skin bioengineering technology.
