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Department of Chemistry
Departmentof Chemistry
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Photo: UHH/Mentz

Research Projects

Bild Labor
Research focuses include the in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo evaluation of environmental influences on skin physiology and pathology as well as the cutaneous effects of dermatocosmetics (both active ingredients and vehicles). For in-vivo measurements, various biophysical measurements are used, such as high-frequency ultrasound, cutometry, strip projection methods, corneometry, pH-metry or evaporimetry. Quantitative PCR, cell cultures, phototoxicity tests and others are used as in vitro methods with the aim of evaluating the underlying molecular principles of action of dermatocosmetics, such as the influence on collagen metabolism.

Skinfunction Laboratories

Two well-equipped skin function laboratories on the premises of the University of Hamburg enable a wide variety of studies and projects in the field of dermatology and cosmetic science to be completed, such as investigating the effects of skincare externals, cosmetic preparations and minimally invasive procedures on skin and also hair quality. The laboratory rooms are air-conditioned and have a constant relative humidity of 50% at 20°C. Additional climate-optimized waiting areas allow fast and reliable acclimatization of test subjects.

Biophysical in-vivo measurements

The laboratories are equipped with various modern biophysical measuring methods for the objective evaluation of skin quality and physiology. These allow the determination of the following parameters, among others:

These diverse biophysical measurements are completed by standardized photography (FotoFinder®) the collection of clinical scores on validated scales by trained personal as well as subject self-assessments.

In-vitro-methods

  • Cell cultures (HaCaT cells and fibroblasts)
  • Rheological investigations/ physiochemical properties of filling substances