We've all experienced the wrinkles that appear on our fingers and toes when submerged in water for a long period of time. It is as if our fingers have become a raisin and have no use.
Surely you have ever wondered why this happens. Scientists have an explanation for it, and some say that it is an example of flawless human evolution. So the reason why we get wrinkled fingers in the sea water and the pools may have its link to evolution.
This is how fingers wrinkle under water
The skin has many layers. The top layer is called the epidermis, and it is followed by the dermis. The bottommost layer is called the subcutaneous layer, where larger blood vessels and nerves are found, as well as fatty and connective tissue. The epidermis wrinkles when exposed to water for a long period. Deeper into the skin, the epidermis is also divided into four more layers: the stratum corneum, granular layer, squamous cell layer, and basal cell layer.
Harvard Health Publishing ensures that wrinkles occur in the upper layer of the epidermis or the stratum corneum. This layer is like a sponge that absorbs water when submerged. It becomes softer and more flexible as it expands when under water for an extended period. This compensates for the increase in fluid volume and you can return to your original position.
However, wrinkles are most noticeable on the fingers, toes, and palms because the stratum corneum is thicker in these areas compared to other areas of the skin. And about the purpose it may have, scientists have also formulated some theories, including human evolution.
Wrinkles can prevent slipping
Some people may see these wrinkles as unnecessary, but this mechanism is an example of human evolution.
Toes can wrinkle even when not soaked in bubble bath. The simple fact of to walk barefoot on wet and damp grass it also causes the epidermis to wrinkle as if it were submerged in water. Scientists say it's not just a simple physical reaction. It could have been designed for a good reason throughout the evolution of humans.
Some studies argue that the epidermis of the fingers and toes is wrinkled by two things. First, they create channels for help drain water. Second, it was designed to avoid slipping. So now we find an explanation for why many children are resistant to falls near the edge of the pool.
Wet toes transform from racing tires to all-weather tires with treads for added traction. Surely shoe and tire manufacturers could learn from evolutionary design skills that all humans benefited from.