Seasonal variations in the skin parameters of Caucasian women from Central Europe

Abstract

Background The human skin is greatly affected by external factors such as UV radiation (UVR), ambient temperature (T), and air humidity. These factors oscillate during the year giving rise to the seasonal variations in the skin properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of seasons, environmental T, relative and absolute humidity on the skin parameters of Caucasian women, perform a literature review and discuss the possible factors lying behind the found changes. Materials and Methods We measured stratum corneum (SC) hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum level, erythema index, and elasticity parameters R2 and R7 on the forehead and the cheek of Caucasian women from the Czech Republic throughout the year. We also performed a non‐systematic literature review focused on the seasonal variations in these skin parameters. Results We confirmed a well‐documented low SC hydration and sebum production in winter. In spring, we found the lowest TEWL (on the forehead) and the highest SC hydration but also the highest erythema index and the lowest elasticity presumably indicating skin photodamage. For most of the skin parameters, the seasonal variations probably arise due to a complex action of different factors as we extensively discussed. Conclusion The data about the seasonal variations in the skin parameters are still highly inconsistent and further studies are needed for better understanding of the normal skin changes throughout the year.

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL): Environment and pollution—A systematic review

“… 18 , 19 Finally, one study found TEWL of the forehead was significantly lower during spring months. 20 …”

“…18,19 Finally, one study found TEWL of the forehead was significantly lower during spring months. 20 First, Song et al 16 examined how skin integrity differed between summer and winter in healthy Korean males. All 100 subjects rested in a room 20-24°C with humidity from 40% to 60% for 30 min.…”

“…Increased TEWL at the cheek during fall and winter compared to spring and summer No significant impact on TEWL across seasons at the forearm Doleckova et al 20 Season n = 446 0/446 Czech Republic Adults Decreased TEWL at the forehead during spring compared to fall, summer, and winter No significant impact on TEWL across seasons at the cheek Jin et al 21 Indoor humidity n = 22 NA Scotland Adults…”

“…No significant trend was observed across seasons at the forearm. Doleckova et al 20 performed a similar study on Caucasian women, measuring TEWL during different seasons (Spring n = 85, Summer n = 93, Autumn n = 137, Winter n = 131). TEWL measurements were done after women rested for 30 min in a room 20-22°C with a humidity from 40 to 45; TEWL measurements were made on the forehead and cheek 10 consecutive times, with the average value being used for results.…”

Newborn‐oriented and environmental factors for newborns' skin barrier functions

“…In a study conducted on adults, the SCH and TEWL were best during spring, and sebum secretion was the highest during summer and decreased during autumn and winter (Dolečková et al, 2021). Another study conducted in Japan reported that sebum secretion increased in adults during spring and winter (Kenjo et al, 2000).…”