' locks in
moisture and appears to improve the skin's elasticity
Scientists
claim to have developed an invisible elastic film that can be applied to the
skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and eye bags.Once applied,
the formula dries to form a film that "mimics the properties of youthful
skin", Nature Materials reports after a
series of small trials.At the moment
it is being explored as a commercial cosmetic product.But the US
scientists say their "second skin" might eventually be used to
deliver medicines and sun protection.Second skinThe team from
Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have
tested their prototype product on a handful of volunteers, applying the formula
to their under-eye bags, forearms and legs.The
polysiloxane polymer was made in the lab using molecules of silicone and oxygen
as the building blocks.Although it's synthetic, it's designed to mimic real skin and
provide a breathable, protective layer.According to the researchers, the
temporary film locks in moisture and helps boost skin elasticity.They performed several tests, including
a recoil test where the skin was pinched and then released to see how long it
takes to ping back into position.
As skin ages, it becomes less firm and
less elastic and so performs less well in this sort of test.Skin that had been coated with the
polymer was more elastic than skin without the film. And, to the naked eye, it
appeared smoother, firmer and less wrinkly.The researchers, who have a spin-off
company that could eventually market their patented formula, say the film is
essentially invisible, can be worn all day without causing irritation and can
withstand things like sweat and rain.
But more studies are needed before
then. The polymer would also need safety approval from regulators.Dr Tamara Griffiths of the British
Association of Dermatologists says bags under the eyes are caused by the
protrusion of fat pockets associated with ageing.While entirely natural, some people see
it as undesirable and seek ways to reverse it - sometimes resorting to surgery.Dr Griffiths said: "The results
[with the polymer film] appear to be comparable to surgery, without the
associated risks. Further research is needed, but this is a novel and very
promising approach to a common problem. I will follow its development with
interest."
Prof Robert Langer, who led the work at
MIT, said: "Developing a second skin that is invisible, comfortable and
effective in holding in water and potentially other materials presents many
different challenges."It has to have the right optical
properties, otherwise it won't look good, and it has to have the right
mechanical properties, otherwise it won't have the right strength and it won't
perform correctly."We are extremely excited about
the opportunities that are presented as a result of this work and look forward
to further developing these materials to better treat patients who suffer from
a variety of skin conditions."
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