We
present a review of the data in the literature on the potential
specificities of the stratum corneum of so-called "black" skin,
together with the afferent cutaneous hydration regulation process.
The methodology of the studies is often debatable, not only
for basic (absence of definition of "black skin")
but also for technical reasons. Their results are often contradicting.
Other than certain subtle differences, related to potentially
enhanced preservation of the epidermis of dark skin from heliodermal
xerosis, we conclude in the similarity of the physicochemical
characteristics of the stratum corneum in the different color
of skin. Moreover, the data available do not suggest a predisposition
of certain skin colors to the occurrence of pathological states
involving the stratum corneum. However, dark skin is characterized
by its semiologic capacity of taking on a "ashy" aspect
related to a better assessment of normal or xerotic stratum
corneum because of melanic pigmentation. |
