CPT, the main test method of skin neuronal sensitivity

Abstract

Background: Many scholars concentrate on skin barrier disruption of sensitive skin, but few focus on its increased neuronal sensitivity.

Objective: To study the possibility of using current perception threshold (CPT) measurement for the quantitative evaluation of skin neuronal sensitivity combined with stinging test.

Methods: The amount of 50 μL 10% lactic acid was applied on each side of the nasolabial fold at random. Subjects assessed stinging based on a 4-point scale at 30 s, 2.5 min and 5.0 min. CPT and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were measured before and after stinging test. Subjects were divided into different groups based on their response to lactic acid.

Results: There was a positive correlation between CPT_before and the sum of clinical scores (CSs). While the beginning time of stinging (BT) was shortened, the CPT_before decreased and TEWL increased.

Conclusion: Different degrees of skin susceptibility can be reflected by BT. CPT can be useful for the quantitative evaluation of skin neuronal sensitivity.

• Current perception threshold
• stinging test
• transepidermal water loss

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank all colleagues in the Skin and Cosmetic Research Dept of Shanbghai Skin Disease Hospital during the whole study.

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.