Effects of Fine Water Particles as a Facial Moisturizer

Introduction to the Study

Researchers have investigated the impact of spraying fine water particles as a facial moisturizer specifically for dry skin in adult women. In environments with effective insulation, indoor humidity levels can significantly drop during heating and cooling periods, resulting in increased moisture loss from the skin. This often leads to symptoms of itchy and dry skin.

Current Practices for Moisture Retention

To combat dry skin, many individuals utilize steam and mist humidifiers. However, these devices typically generate water particles that are in the micron size range. Prolonged use can inadvertently cause excessive indoor humidity and condensation, creating an environment conducive to mold growth.

Innovative Humidifier Development

Previous research has indicated that fine water particles can serve effectively as a facial moisturizer. Recently, a new humidifier utilizing a conductive polymer material (PEDOT/PSS) has been developed with several advantageous features:
– Release of fine water particles without the need for a continuous water supply
– Water particle diameter of 5 μm or less, which are non-charged, enabling them to penetrate the skin’s surface and enhance moisture levels
– Prevention of indoor condensation and mold development

Study Hypothesis and Methodology

The study hypothesized that fine water particles generated by the PEDOT/PSS device would increase the water content in the skin’s corneal layer more effectively than traditional steam and mist humidifiers. The researchers conducted experiments on 17 healthy adult women, aged 30 to 46, in February. Three different test conditions were established with varying sizes of fine water particles, and measurements were taken on separate days.

Experimental Conditions

The peak fine water particle sizes in each test condition were as follows:
– Condition A: below 0.5 μm
– Condition B: below 1.8 μm
– Condition C: below 5.4 μm

The total amount of water released during 30 minutes of spraying for each condition was:
– Condition A: 1.9 g
– Condition B: 105 g
– Condition C: 480 g

Condition A’s fine water particles were non-charged and allowed for continuous operation without requiring water replenishment. In contrast, the steaming equipment used in condition C released warmer fine water particles.

Results and Findings

The study’s results indicated an increase in skin conductance across all conditions 120 minutes after spraying the fine water particles. The degree of increase varied, with condition A showing a significantly higher level compared to condition B. The superior performance of condition A can be attributed to its smaller and non-charged water particles, which effectively penetrated through the epidermal layer into the dermal layer of the skin. Additionally, the water retention function remained stable for up to 360 minutes post-application.

Conclusion

Condition A proved to be highly convenient, allowing for repetitive spraying without the need for water replenishment. Overall, the findings suggest that non-charged fine water particles may be an effective solution for moisturizing dry skin in environments with low humidity.

Reference

Nishimura, N., Inoue, S., Yokoyama, K., & Iwase, S. (2018). Effect of spraying of fine water particles on facial skin moisture and viscoelasticity in adult women. Skin Research and Technology.