Skin permeability
Skin permeability refers to how easily substances can pass through the skin's outer layer, known as the epidermis. This property varies depending on factors like the thickness of the skin, the presence of oils, and the type of substance (liquid, gas, or solid). For instance, some medications are designed to penetrate the skin for absorption, while others, like certain chemicals, might be blocked. Understanding skin permeability is important in fields like medicine and cosmetics, as it influences how effective topical treatments are and how substances interact with the body.
Additional Insights
-
Skin permeability refers to the ability of substances to pass through the skin's outer layer. The skin acts as a protective barrier, but certain chemicals, drugs, and moisture can penetrate it. Factors influencing permeability include the molecular size of the substance, its chemical properties, and the health of the skin itself. For instance, damaged skin can allow more substances to enter, while thicker skin may restrict absorption. Understanding skin permeability is important in fields like medicine and skincare, as it affects how well topical treatments work and how harmful substances might enter the body.