Determination of polyethylene glycols of different molecular weight in the stratum corneum

We developed a sensitive method for determination of polyethylene glycols (PEGs) of different molecular weight (MW) in the human stratum corneum (SC) obtained by tape stripping. The analysis is based on derivatization with pentafluoropropionic anhydride (PFPA) and gas chromatography–electron capture detection (GC–ECD). The identification and quantification of PEGs was done using individual oligomers. The method showed to be suitable for studying permeability in normal and impaired skin with respect to MW in the range of 150–600 Da.