ABSTRACT
Background: Natural aging process is reflected by gradual changes in the structure of the skin. These changes become very marked in old age. The changes in the epidermis and dermis as age advances is reflected externally as wrinkling, dryness, loss of elasticity , thinning and tendency towards purpurae on minor injury. So the aim of this study is to measure the thickness of the epidermis. Materials and Methods: The study was done in skin specimens by grouping the individuals in 4 age groups namely Group A (3-20yrs), Group B (21-50yrs), Group C (51-65yrs and Group D (>65yrs).The specimens were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin stain and the changes in the thickness of the epidermis was observed. Results: The epidermis was found to be thin in children from 3years of age. The thickness of the epidermis starts increasing in young individuals and is thick till 50 years of age. Then the thickness of the epidermis starts reducing and becomes very thin in older persons. Conclusion: As the average life expectancy is increasing, the aging of skin presents a growing problem for the dermatologists. The computer system for image processing and analysis has made possible, measuring the thickness of the epidermis. Human aging is characterized by a number of disorders like epidermolysis bullosa and phemphigus vulgaris affecting the structure of the skin. So it is necessary to study the normal changes that occur in the skin as age advances which predisposes to various disorders. The study is done among Indian population.