Feasibility of using optical coherence tomography to study the influence of skin structure on finger friction

► We introduced a new method for assessing the skin frictional behaviour. ► We examined the effect of skin structure, contact area and hydration on skin friction. ► The thickness and moisture levels of skin have big impacts on skin Young's modulus. ► The nominal contact area will increase following a power law if the applied force increases as well as the real contact area. ► Water absorption will increase the thickness of skin and moisture level hence will increase the friction coefficient.