Variation of cutaneous biophysical parameters in Korean and Chinese women with age, climate, and cosmetic habits = Variation of cutaneous biophysical parameters in Korean and Chinese women with age, climate, and cosmetic habits

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Background: Cutaneous biophysical parameters which are measured using commercial non-invasive methods are known to reflect skin functions.
Objectives: This study was aimed to investigate the variations of cutaneous biophysical parameters in Chinese and Korean women and to assess the association between those parameters and age, climate, and cosmetic habits.
Methods: A cross-sectional study included 361 healthy Chinese and Korean women between 18 and 49 years of age in 4 cities (Guangzhou, Nanjing, and Shijiazhuang in China, and Suwon in Korea). Cutaneous biophysical parameters, demographic profiles and cosmetic habits were assessed using non-invasive instruments and questionnaire.
Results: Skin elasticity and tone decreased, and pore size and wrinkle increased with age. Skin surface temperature, hydration, TEWL, and sebum output were not significantly influenced by aging. Suwon (Korean) showed a better profile in oil-to-water balance (higher hydration level, lower TEWL and sebum), less severe wrinkle and brighter skin than the 3 cities in China. After adjusting for age and region, using sunscreen with high SPF and PA index, wearing base makeup daily, and using moisturizers improved hydration, TEWL, and elasticity significantly.
Conclusion: Korean women have a better profile of biophysical parameters than Chinese, which might be attributed to cosmetic habits, besides age and climatic factors. An appropriate use of cosmetics could be helpful in delaying skin aging and preserving skin functions.