Mechanical analysis of pimple growth and pain level characterization

TL;DR

This paper develops a finite element model to analyze pimple growth mechanics and pain sensation, providing insights into how tissue properties influence pain levels and potential prevention strategies.

Contribution

It introduces a novel mechanical model linking pimple expansion to pain, incorporating tissue properties and follicle characteristics.

Findings

Mechanical stimulus depends on follicle depth and tissue properties.

Pain level correlates with deformation and mechanical stress.

Model offers potential for pimple prevention and pain management.

Abstract

Pimple is one of the most common skin diseases for humans. The mechanical modeling of pimple growth is very limited. A finite element model is developed to quantify the deformation field with the expansion of follicle, and then the mechanical stimulus is related to the sensation of pain during the development of pimple. Through these models, parametric studies show the dependence of mechanical stimulus and pain level on the pimple-surrounded structures, follicle depth and mechanical properties of the epidermis. The findings in this paper may provide useful insights on prevention or pain relief of pimples, as well as those related to cosmetics and other tissue growth.