Design of a Handheld Skin Moisture Measuring Device for Application towards Eczema

Abstract

<p>The aim of the project is to develop a device capable of quantifying and displaying moisture content in the skin. By measuring moisture, it is possible to prevent drying and in turn, the symptoms of Eczema. In regards to Eczema, dry skin must be avoided at all times because it can cause a chain of symptoms. Therefore, the device must be portable to provide continual feedback. Skin moisture can be quantified as water content in the stratum corneum layer of the skin. Using an Inter-Digital Capacitor, the amount of skin moisture can be measured as a proportional increase in capacitance due to the dielectric properties of water. As a result, moist skin will be indicated by a large increase in capacitance while dry skin would produce a small increase. The device has the potential to improve the quality of life for those with Eczema. The theory behind my device, the hardware design, experimental results, and efficacy of the system are presented.</p>