Background/aims: Tape stripping of human stratum corneum has been performed to measure stratum corneum mass, barrier function, drug reservoir and percutaneous penetration. However, the technique itself requires further development to facilitate interpretation.
Methods: In this study we quantified stratum comeum (SC) tape stripping and water kinetic parameters utilizing three types of adhesive tapes, in an in vivo randomized clinical trial. Stratum corneum was tape stripped, and the mass of SC removed by each tape was quantified utilizing a protein assay. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured and barrier disruption and SC water kinetics calculated. Three commonly utilized acrylate adhesive tapes were utilized and a comparison made between them.
Results: Each type of tape successfully stripped the stratum corneum, but the rayon tape did not induce SC barrier disruption. Neither the type of tape nor the site stripped significantly influenced the mass of SC removed. Water kinetic parameters did not differ significantly for the tapes that did induce barrier disruption. Individual variation in barrier disruption to water following tape stripping was demonstrated.
Conclusion: The tapes utilized removed a similar amount of SC. The tapes have a different propensity to cause barrier disruption. Some individuals do not demonstrate increased TEWL despite an equivalent mass of SC being removed compared to those who do show a response.