RECOVERY OF NORMAL AND ECZEMATOUS SKIN FROM ALKALI - CONTROL OF SURFACE PH BY EXCHANGE RESINS

[摘要] The behavior of normals and persons with atopic eczema to contact with alkali was studied by potentio-metric determinations of the reaction of their skin. Cationic exchange resins were employed to modify the effects of alkali and soap in the skin. Compared with that of normals it was found that atopic skin shows greater fluctuations in the alkali-acid reaction curve. It takes longer for skin of atopic eczema to establish an equilibrium and to recover from alkali, so that such skin remains under the influence of alkali longer. Hydrogen donating resin applied to the skin after contact with alkali and soap promptly acidifies the surface. Resin applied only before use of alkali prevents extensive increase of pH, but may delay recovery to the acid state. Resin before and afterwards both prevents extreme alkalization and hastens recovery. The physicochemical system of colloidal equilibrium as exerted by the mucopolysaccharides of the skin and keratin is briefly discussed.