Correlation study between image features and mechanical properties of Han Chinese facial skin.

OBJECTIVE: Mechanical properties are considered to be vital factors that influence skin physiology during ageing. Wrinkles and skin roughness are the two main features in aged skin. The purpose of this study is to characterize the relationship between facial skin mechanical properties and image features using quantitative methods.

METHODS: Two hundred and forty healthy male and female volunteers living in Shanghai, China (aged 20-70 years), were examined in this study. Facial images were photographed by VISIA-CR. Wrinkle volume of middle forehead and skin roughness of upper cheek were analysed by Skin Surface Analyzer (SSA) software. Mechanical parameters at the middle forehead and upper cheek were measured using Cutometer(®) MPA 580 and Reviscometer(®) RVM 600.

RESULTS: Skin wrinkles and roughness increased during ageing, where men have a higher level and earlier manifestation than women. Skin mechanical parameters R2, R5, R7 and RRT were found decreased with age. Moreover, mechanical parameters including R2, R7, RRT and anisotropy showed significant correlations with wrinkle volume and/or skin roughness.

CONCLUSION: The facial image features including wrinkle volume and skin roughness are significantly correlated with skin elasticity and anisotropy, which could well describe the skin features of Han Chinese.