Mid-Infrared absorption coefficients of human skin stratum corneum

We report infrared absorption coefficients of human stratum corneum from both native ex vivo skin and in vitro skin models. The spectra show a good transparency in the so-called molecular fingerprint region, even in high relative humidity conditions. Our results provide the quantitative basis for understanding the interaction of Mid-IR light with skin, highly relevant for biomedical sensing and dermatological research.