The effect of hydration on the risk of friction blister formation on the heel of the foot

Abstract

In controlled experimental conditions increased skin surface hydration increases the rate of temperature change of the skin in response to load application and consequently increases the risk of blister creation.

The effect of topical anti blister products on the risk of friction blister formation on the foot

“…In addition, the plasticizing effect of water on keratin causes the stratum corneum to become less stiff and more deformable therefore increasing the area of contact and therefore increasing friction [16][17][18]. Indeed, using a laboratory based model of blister formation, the authors have already demonstrated that greater skin hydration is associated with greater risk of foot blisters [11].…”

“…formation [11,33]. This approach enables the effects of interventions and any role of skin hydration in these effects to be studied more sensitively than in previous studies.…”

“…The within subject repeatability was not tested for any of the three intervention groups. However, the LAM has previously been demonstrated to be a suitable model for interventions that might affect skin surface friction [11,33].…”

“…Our choice of material was based on the need to ensure application of friction to the skin such that there is a realistic risk of blister within a practical experimental timeframe [11,33]. However, in the testing of interventions this choice may require revision to enable a closer to real world loading between the applicator and the heel skin.…”

“…The coefficient of friction of skin generally increases with increased moisture due to increased surface resistance [10][11][12]. The alterations in surface resistance, of palmar skin in particular, are complex and comprise a combination of viscous shearing effects; absorption of water by the skin and capillary adhesion effects [10,[13][14][15].…”