Influence of hair clipping on transepidermal water loss values in horses: a pilot study.

This research explores the impact of hair clipping on the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) values in horses. It found that hair clipping allows for consistent TEWL values, suggesting that it’s recommended for accurate measurements.

Background

• The study is designed to assess the changes in Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL), a key skin parameter that measures skin barrier function, based on the hair clipping of horses.
• The TEWL values aid in gauging the effectiveness and health status of a skin barrier as they present the amount of water that evaporates from the body through the skin. The values are influenced by factors such as the body region, age, sex, breed, and hair coat of the animals.

Objective of the Study

• The primary aim of this research was to examine the potential influence that hair clipping could have on the TEWL values of horses.

Research Methodology

• The researchers conducted the study with 12 Wielkopolska horses, a popular breed in Poland.
• For the measurement process, the team used a Courage Khazaka Multi Probe Adapter 5 equipped with a TEWL TM 300 probe. This provided a sensitive and non-invasive method to accurately measure skin moisture and evaporation rates.

Findings of the Study

• The study identified that TEWL values remained constant in areas where the horse’s hair was clipped. This contrasted with unclipped sites where TEWL values were not consistent.
• The research consequently suggested that hair clipping prior to TEWL measurement in horses is recommended for reliable, stable values.