Why Do We Wrinkle When Wet?

The video explores why skin wrinkles when submerged in water, initially thought to be due to osmosis. However, it was discovered that the wrinkling is an active response of the nervous system, constricting blood vessels to cause the skin to pucker. This involuntary response may have an evolutionary function, providing better grip in wet conditions. A study showed that wrinkled fingers improved grip on wet objects by 12%. Despite this advantage, constant wrinkling is avoided as it reduces sensitivity.

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