Fingerprint Myth Uncovered

Fingertips David Niblack/Imagebase

For over 100 years scientists have believed that the main purpose of our fingerprints is to improve our grip by increasing friction between our fingers and an object. Researchers have discovered that while fingerprints may be useful for several other functions, they do not improve our grip on smooth surfaces.

While testing the hypothesis of fingerprint friction, the researchers discovered that skin behaves more like rubber than a normal solid. In fact, our fingerprints reduce our ability to grasp objects because they reduce our skin's contact area with the objects we hold. Several other theories have arisen as to why we have fingerprints. Researchers believe they help to improve contact with surfaces in wet conditions, protect our fingers from damage, and even increase touch sensitivity.

Learn more about this study, see:

• Fingerprints Do Not Improve Grip Friction (Science Daily)