The Utility of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) for Detecting Exercise-Induced Changes in the Human Hand Epidermis

Abstract

The literature lacks data on transient infrared spectral changes in the epidermis following physical exercise. This study tested the hypothesis that a single exercise session affects selected spectral bands (3270–1045 cm⁻¹) in healthy individuals. Eight professional tennis players completed a 1.5-h moderate-intensity training session. Epidermal samples from the inner hand were collected before and after exercise, following cleaning with distilled water and 96% PA ethyl alcohol. Samples were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Absorbance values were recorded for 12 peaks. Significant correlations were observed for the 3270 cm⁻¹ (r = 0.976) and 1045 cm⁻¹ (r = 0.754) peaks. Notably, post-exercise increases were found at 1453 cm⁻¹ (lipids/proteins), 1078 cm⁻¹ (phospholipids), and 1045 cm⁻¹ (carbohydrates). No significant changes were observed for other peaks, though a general upward trend appeared. Inter-individual variability was high. FTIR may detect acute epidermal biochemical responses to exercise, especially in lipid- and phospholipid-related structures.