Transparent film smooths sagging skin back into shape

If there are two things that most humans desire it is to look younger and be thinner. Recent advances in materials modelling puts one of these desires within our reach.

Collaboration between materials scientists and cosmetic firms resulted in the development of a very thin transparent film that, when applied over the skin, reduce the appearance of sagging skin and wrinkles. While you are wearing this “secondskin” it also reduces water loss from the skin. The product has been used in thebeauty industry since 2014 to give temporary relief from an aging appearance. Besides being of considerable interest to cosmetic companies, the new invention also has possible applications in the medical field. These include its hydrating effects and the ability to trap corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory conditions on the skin to improve their absorption.

These applications are already being investigated. Summarized by:

Marlise van Staden (PhD, Physiology)
University of Limpopo

Reference:
Geddes, L. 2016. Transparent film smooths sagging skin back into shape, Nature (09 May 2016)