What is new:

DERMATACT introduces a not-yet-available quality into dermatology: tactile sensation by a precise instrument (AFM). Unique selling position is an operator-independent index number to classify the skin barrier.

What it needs:

An adhesive tape is attached to skin and then sent to central lab via postal service. These painlessly collected cells from the surface bear relevant information about the skin status.

What it gives:
Based on cellular nano-architecture, a Dermal Texture Index (DTI) is given, which reflects skin moisture level and barrier function. The DTI correlates well to clinical scores, but is more sensitive.

How it works:

Minute traces on cell surfaces are „read“ like a text for the blind. This is achieved by the following procedure: Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) records topographical maps of skin cells at nanoscale resolution. Then, computer vision is employed to distill a number value for specific texture (DTI), indicating the cellular stress level. Since skin is continuously abrased and regenerated, surfacial cells carry information from deeper tissue layers. As a phenotyping biomarker, DTI integrates both hereditary and lifestyle factors.

DERMATACT detects skin stress so sensitively, that risks may be recognised before visible signs appear. Accordingly, an onset of disease could be counteracted, rendering it an ultimate tool for preventive medicine and cosmetics.

What it is not (limitations):

No dermatological diagnosis is given (benign vs. malignant alterations or similar).

No genetic analysis is performed.

For therapeutic implications, please see your dermatologist.