Excessive Weight Favours Skin Physiology - Up to a Point: Another Expression of the Obesity Paradox

Abstract

Background/Aims: Recently classified as an epidemic by the WHO, obesity (as well as the state of being overweight) clearly affects significant populations across all ages. The relationship between obesity and some diseases (e.g. cardiovascular ones) is known, although many paradoxes remain to be explained. Very little information is available, however, regarding its impact on skin physiology and skin disease. This study aims to examine the influence of excessive weight on epidermal hydration and transepidermal water loss, key variables of skin water balance and skin biomechanics. Methods: A convenience sample of 89 healthy female volunteers was selected and divided into 4 groups, according to their BMI (body mass index), as normal (control), overweight, obese (I and II), and morbid. Skin physiology was quantitatively assessed in all individuals in 4 anatomical areas using non-invasive biometrical analysis by reference instrumentation. Descriptive and comparative statistics were applied, adopting a confidence level of 95%. Results: A non-linear alteration for all variables was detected as a function of BMI. Conclusion: Results suggest that excessive weight might favour skin performance within certain limits, reflecting a particular adaptation of the skin to the weight gain and body contour.

Characterization of skin function associated with obesity and specific correlation to local/systemic parameters in American women

“…Elucidation of the main cause and mechanism is awaited. In a recent study, “obesity paradox” in skin function was described [ 37 ]. It showed lower TEWL and higher SC hydration of forehead and zygomatic area in overweight group (BMI:25–29.9) and obesity I-II group (BMI:30–39.9) than normal weight and morbidly obesity group.…”

“Normal” TEWL‐how can it be defined? A systematic review

“…Additionally, Montiero Rodrigues et al (2017) recruited 89 females and divided them into four groups according to BMI: (1) normal (BMI of 19.9–24.9), (2) overweight (BMI 25–29.9), (3) obese (BMI 30–39.9), (4) morbidly obese (BMI above 40) 43 . TEWL measurements were made on participants in a room with a temperature 20–22°C and humidity 40%–50% with a Tewameter TM300 43 . Measurements were made on the face, breast and abdominal region 43 .…”

Characterizing the Mechanism of Action of Essential Oils on Skin Homeostasis—Data from Sonographic Imaging, Epidermal Water Dynamics, and Skin Biomechanics

“…Our data clearly show a significant improvement of all descriptors (Figure 3) following the short-term application of the extracts under study, more consistent with the water retention mechanism affecting the deepest skin structures rather than with a superficial effect on stratum corneum. While the relative participation of the epidermis in skin biomechanics is still unclear, the contribution of the tissues underneath has been established [25,41]. The occlusive capacity of these substances on the epidermis provides sufficient evidence of deep water retention capable of improving the biomechanics of the skin.…”