Optical-Based Haptic Sensing for Skin Assessment

Haptic sensing is fundamental to how humans interact with the physical world, offering critical insights into material properties that vision or hearing simply can't provide. Despite the availability of various haptic sensors, existing technologies face a persistent challenge: delivering both high spatial resolution and force sensitivity in devices that are portable and affordable. Here, we introduce a handheld optical-based haptic sensor designed specifically for comprehensive skin assessment. Our device seamlessly integrates high-resolution imaging capabilities with precise elasticity measurements, allowing for accurate quantification of skin elasticity while capturing surface topography in remarkable detail. This enables thorough evaluation of diverse skin conditions. The sensor finds applications across clinical dermatology, aesthetic medicine, and personalized skincare regimens. As a cost-effective and portable solution, this technology democratizes access to high-performance haptic sensing, making it practical for professional clinical assessments as well as personal skin monitoring. By providing objective, quantifiable data, our sensor offers a valuable complement to traditional subjective evaluation methods.