Scientists say they've developed an invisible elastic film that, when applied on top of real skin, works as a "second skin." According to the team from Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the "skin" functions similarly to real skin, serving as a breathable, protective layer that locks in moisture and temporarily helps increase skin elasticity. The "skin" can last for more than a day without causing irritation, or being washed away by rain or sweat, scientists say.
Right now, it's mainly being tested for cosmetic uses, such as covering up wrinkles and hiding under-eye bags. Someday, scientists hope the film can be used to deliver medication and sun protection. They expect it can be used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis by soothing dry patches.
Good as it may sound, the product is still far from hitting the market. The report released Monday just describes the first test of the film, and researchers say they don't yet know when they'll have enough data to submit the product to the Food and Drug Administration for marketing approval.
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And, as Murad Alam, a professor of dermatology at Northwestern University who was not associated with the study, told The New York Times, first tests don't guarantee anything. "This is a first step, and all these applications will require further work," Alam said. Still, he's very impressed with the study. If the testing is successful, he says, "I think it will be very popular."
