New quantitative indicators of evaluating the skin care regimen for older adults with dry skin by using the digital image analysis

Abstract

 Most elderly people experience roughening of the skin surface and dryness with aging. Consequently, we must ensure that their skin remains adequately moisturized. However, it is difficult to evaluate the effect of skin care in bedridden elderly people who may have difficulties with communication. Therefore, there is a need for an evaluation index that can objectively evaluate dry skin recovery. This prospective cohort study aimed to assess the usefulness of digital image analysis as a quantitative indicator of the effectiveness of dry skin care in elderly patients. Elderly inpatients in a long-term care facility, and with dry skin on their forearm were recruited to the study. The intervention comprised applying a moisturizer cream to dry skin on the forearm once daily for 2 weeks. Skin hydration, and skin morphology were compared before and after the intervention. Skin morphology was measured by digital image analysis. In total, 16 people of elderly completed the follow-up study. After the intervention, skin hydration significantly increased indicated that the skin condition changed from dry to moisturized. The following factors were associated with this improved hydration: average thickness of the sulcus cutis, variance of thickness, and the relative scales area significantly decreased.