The influence of cosmetics and ointments on the spectral emissivity of skin (skin temperature measurement)

Abstract

Measurements of the spectral emmissivity, epsilon (lambda), of human skin described in a previous paper were performed with a modified monochromator by comparing the radiation from the skin with blackbody radiation in the wavelength range between 2 and 14 mum. Using the same equipment the spectral emissivity has been measured of skin which had been covered with different cosmetics and ointments. From these data it is possible to predict theoretically the apparent temperature difference as seen by an infrared scanner or radiometer with a detector of which the spectral detectivity, D (lambda), is known. These values are compared with the readings of a Bofors Thermograph with an InSb detector. When talcum venetum has been applied to the skin, a greater apparent temperature diffenence must be expected for thermographic cameras equipped with a HgCdTe detector than for cameras with InSb detectors.