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The removal of stratum corneum in vivo by cellophane tape stripping is a traumatic procedure, as evidenced by considerable acute erythema. This may render the skin less suitable for subsequent experimentation. Hydration of the stratum corneum by occlusion under a water-saturated patch for 24 hours prior to stripping greatly facilitates the procedure. Removal is accomplished with less force, and with about ⅓ the number of strippings ordinarily required. Also, there is usually less erythema than after stripping of dry skin. Why hydration should loosen stratum corneum cells from each other is not known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]