Cutometric assessment
Skin elasticity, skin firmness
Skin is viscoelastic (both firm and elastic) thanks to structural proteins such as collagen and elastin. With age, some of these structural proteins are lost and the skin loses its elasticity and firmness. Many ingredients in cosmetic products aim to improve and maintain these properties of skin, which can be ascertained using a cutometer (Cutometer® dual MPA580 from Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH). A vacuum is produced and two parameters are measured: first, the skin’s ability to resist the suction (R0) and second, its ability to return to its initial state once the suction is removed (R8). A value for the elasticity and firmness of the skin can be calculated from the readings taken, which can be compared with the values for untreated control areas of skin. This makes the efficacy of your product quantifiable.