Our research includes the use of several biomedical engineering devices for objective evaluation of results. Our readers were already acquainted with some of them. Profilometry monitors and evaluate roughness of skin surface. With technical progress many different approaches were suggested: mechanical stylus profilometry, optical, interference approaches, microscopical, holographical, laser and photometrical transmission measurement with replica. Every approach has its advantages and disadvantages. Comparison of reliability, reproducibility and validity of data was performed. Modem devices provides two-dimensional (2D) and spatial (3D) evaluation. It is possible to assess many statistically estimated parameters. Methods were used in effect evaluation of e.g. retinoids, glucocor-ticosteroids, emollients in atopy evaluation, professional dermatoses etc.

        Key words: profilometry - skin surface - skin roughness - skin topography - skin wrinkles - use of pro¬filometry