[Physiology of the skin of the vulva: new aspects]

Abstract

Using noninvasive bioengineering skin technology, the vulvar skin has been partially characterized as having unique properties. The reduction in stratum corneum barrier function and the increase in basal blood flow in the vulvar skin may explain the high rate of percutaneous absorption and the increased reactivity to irritants. The vulvar microbial flora represents a unique combination of contaminants from the vagina and the perianal area and a resident flora that is typical for intertriginous skin, together with a high carrier rate of Staphylococcus aureus. The long-term goal of vulvar physiology is to understand better how this more specialized skin differs from less specialized areas in the hope of using this information clinically.