Modelling of the dielectric properties of normal and irradiated skin.

We have shown that irradiation changes the dielectric properties of human skin at radiofrequencies. Both the dielectric constant and the conductivity of the irradiated skin decrease, especially at low frequencies. The experimental data were analysed using two bioelectric models. Relevant dielectric parameters were determined by curve fitting. The dielectric relaxation of the radiation-induced acute or late reaction of the skin occurred at higher frequencies than with normal or non-irradiated skin, while the static conductivity and static dielectric constant of the irradiated skin decreased. We conclude that bioelectric modelling provides a useful tool in the evaluation of cellular changes in irradiated skin.