Closed-Chamber Water Evaporation Measurement Device: Vaposcan

Asch Japan Co., Ltd.

Vaposcan AS-VT200RS

Vaposcan AS-VT200RS

For Evaluating TEWL*1, Skin Barrier Function, and Dry Eye

Using a closed chamber enables accurate measurement of skin water evaporation without being affected by external air or airflow. TEWL*1 is measured based on changes in absolute humidity within the closed chamber.
With a portable, handheld size*2 and support for both AC adapter and dry-cell battery operation, highly flexible measurements in various locations are possible, without direction or angle restrictions.
The aperture diameter ranges from the standard diameter 12 to an optional diameter 6, so it can also be used for the lips, scalp, nails, and eyeballs, and for the skin of small animals.

*1: Transepidermal Water Loss
*2: Size: 165 (W) × 70 (D) × 28 (H) mm; Weight: 200 g

Vaposcan AS-VT200RS

Vaposcan AS-VT200RS

Short Measurement Time and Accurate Results

Measurement time is short, taking between 5 and 14 seconds. Measurements can be taken just by gently pressing the chamber aperture against the skin.
With the closed-chamber design, accurate data can be obtained without the effects of external air turbulence or airflow. A high-resolution analog-to-digital converter enables accurate measurement of water evaporation ranging from trace amounts to high levels.
The unit’s built-in high-performance CPU constantly monitors the humidity and temperature inside the chamber. It notifies the user of the optimal measurement start time, and also autodetects the measurement time.
Left: TEWL Measurement in Animals; Right: Evaluation of How Skin Barrier Function Is Affected by Friction with Clothing Materials

Left: TEWL Measurement in Animals; Right: Evaluation of How Skin Barrier Function Is Affected by Friction with Clothing Materials

Track Record of Various Uses

Manufacturing in Japan provides flexible support, and we can handle custom orders to enable measurements that were difficult with other companies’ products.
We have a sales track record of over 300 units. It is used in the following settings.
  • Evaluation of skin barrier function
  • Evaluation of barrier-improving effects of cosmetics, topical medications, and foods
  • Measurement of TEWL in patients with atopic dermatitis and other allergic conditions
  • Evaluation of TEWL during the healing process after skin grafting
  • Measurement of TEWL in large and small animals
  • Evaluation of how skin barrier function is affected by friction with clothing materials
  • Assessment of skin irritation
Evaluation of TEWL After Skin Grafting

Evaluation of TEWL After Skin Grafting

Extensive Track Record in Research Settings

This product is used in a wide range of research fields.
  • Kenji Hayashida, et al.: Quality of pediatric second-degree burn wound scars following the application of basic fibroblast growth factor: Results of a randomized, controlled pilot study. Ostomy Wound Management 2012;58(8):32–36
  • A. Aioi, et al.: Impairment of skin barrier function in NC/Nga Tnd mice as a possible model for atopic dermatitis. British Journal of Dermatology 2001; 144: 12–18.
And many more