A Study of Types of Skincare Creams Affected the Creation of Latent Fingerprints on Non-Porous Surfaces Using the Cyanoacrylate Fuming Technique

Abstract

Latent fingerprints are critical evidence used for personal identification, as the unique characteristics of fingerprints vary from person to person. However, due to the widespread use of various skincare products on the body, palms, and fingers, this study aims to examine the effects of different types of skincare products, with varying compositions, on the formation of latent fingerprints on non-porous surfaces and the optimal preservation time for latent fingerprints using the cyanoacrylate fuming technique. The findings revealed that different types of skincare products influence the formation of latent fingerprints in varying degrees. Aloe vera gel-based skincare products resulted in the most significant reduction in the quality of latent fingerprints due to their water-based composition, in contrast to other skincare products that contain oil as a major component. It was also observed that latent fingerprints stored for three days retained their quality most effectively. In conclusion, the type of skincare product and the duration of fingerprint preservation significantly affect the quality of latent fingerprints, which can be further applied in the field of forensic science.