Have you ever noticed that when you take bath for long i.e. when toes and hands are in contact with water for long, they become quite wrinkly? Well, we have a scientific answer to this.
What people think?
Usually, people think that since the layer of skin is exposed to water for long, it absorbs water and swells due to that. However, the reason is something else!
What exactly happens?
These wrinkles that develop on toes and fingers are a result of the ANS or the Autonomous Nervous System. When you soak the fingers in water for long, the finger’s pulp volume is reduced owing to vasoconstriction (constriction of blood vessels), a process which is controlled by ANS. Due to this reduction in pulp volume, we get wrinkles on toes and fingers. However, you don’t need to worry as these wrinkles are healthy and symbolize proper functioning of ANS.
How are these wrinkles helpful?
These wrinkles are quite helpful in giving you a good grip. Yes, when the fingers are wrinkled you will have a much better grip over submerged or wet items.
A study was conducted, wherein participants had to pick up dry or wet objects including marbles of different sizes with hands after soaking them in water for 30 minutes. The study was conducted for the purpose of seeing whether the subject can pick it up with dry hands better or with wrinkled hands. As compared to dry hands, subjects could pick up wet marbles with wrinkled fingers faster.
Similarly even wrinkled toes give a good grip so as to avoid slipping in wet conditions. So finally, have you got the reason behind these wrinkled toes or fingers?