title: EEMCO guidance for the assessment of stratum corneum hydration: electrical methods.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The improvement of stratum corneum hydration is one of the most important claims in the cosmetic industry.
  
  
  METHODS
  Objective assessment of moisturization can be done with devices based on electrical methods provided these instruments are used in an appropriate manner.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This paper deals with the biophysical basis behind these techniques and describes the most important variables, pitfalls and drawbacks related to measurements and current instrumentation. Individual-related and environment-related variables are also analyzed as well as study designs for predictive or use tests.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Practical suggestions for standardization of measurements are given.
authors.affiliation: 1 Department of Dermatology, University of Pavia, IRCCS Policlinics S. Matteo, Pavia, Italy2Members of the EEMCO Croup: P. Masson (Chairman), France; L. Rodrigues (Secretary), Portugal; E. Berardesca, Italy; CL Cummer, UK; I-L Lévêque, France; M. Loden, Sweden; G. Piérard, Belgium; V. Rogiers, Belgium; D. Salter, UK; G. Sauermann, Germany; J. Serup, Denmark; M. A. Trevethan, UK.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Berardesca
keywords: capacitance; conductance; hydration; impedance; skin bioengineering; stratum corneum