A consistent skin care regimen leads to objective and subjective improvements in dry human skin: investigator-blinded randomized clinical trial

A global perspective on the treatment and maintenance of mature skin using gentle cleansers and moisturizers

Xerosis is highly prevalent in the population aged over 50 years and substantially impacts quality of life due to the associated stigma, related pruritus, and potential sequelae. We propose that the term mature xerosis be used for subjects over 50 who suffer from age-related xerosis and replace senile xerosis to describe the phenomenon. The etiology of xerosis depends on genetic and environmental factors that affect stratum corneum hydration and skin barrier function. Skincare to restore barrier function is essential in xerosis treatment and is relevant for maintaining and preventing its progression. Many moisturizers and cleansers are available for xerosis; however, they are underutilized by patients with mature xerosis. A panel of eight global dermatologists reviewed the unique aspects of xerosis in mature skin and discussed the specific needs, relevance, and considerations for skincare selection to prevent, treat, and maintain skin with mature xerosis. The panel selected five statements based on evidence from a literature review and the panel's clinical experience to provide clinical considerations and recommendations for dermatologists and other healthcare providers treating patients with mature xerosis. Increased recognition of the burden of xerosis in mature skin is warranted. Gentle cleansers and barrier-restoring ceramide-containing moisturizers are essential to xerosis management, reducing signs and symptoms of xerosis, including associated pruritus.

Facial Skincare Routine Adherence in the General Population

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic sparked an interest in skincare with the closure of spas and salons. Skincare, one of TikTok's most popular dermatology-related hashtags, received hundreds of millions of views. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) shared facial cleansing recommendations; however,  how many people follow them is unclear. Studies have shown a good daily facial cleansing and moisturizing routine can increase microbiome diversity and skin hydration. This can be beneficial in conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Purpose The aim of the study is to assess how well people follow the AAD recommendations and evaluate any differences in this behavior by gender. Methods A 19-question survey was designed and administered utilizing Qualtrics. The questions included demographic information, facial cleansing practices, and motivation for skincare routine. The survey was distributed via Rowan Email and on various social media platforms (GroupMe, Instagram, etc.) to target the general population. The data was analyzed using SPSS. Results One hundred twenty-four responses were collected from 91 female-identifying and 33 male-identifying participants. There were statistically significant differences between genders for the use of non-alcoholic gentle cleanser (p<0.001), use of moisturizer after washing the face (p<0.001), washing the face after sweating (p<0.001), and using warm water (p=0.026). No statistically significant difference was seen for face washing occurrence between genders (p=0.098). Statistically significant differences were seen between genders for motivation: hygiene (p<0.001), beauty/anti-aging (p<0.001), and health (p=0.004).  Conclusion Individuals who identify as female may be more likely to adhere to AAD facial skincare recommendations. This could be a result of self-reported motivations such as hygiene, beauty, and health.

Efficacy of a Multi-lamellar Emulsion Containing a Synthetic Sphingosine Kinase 1 Activator and Pseudoceramide in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) have impaired barrier function, which decreases skin hydration, weakens their defense against microorganisms, and culminates in increased inflammatory responses. Here, we conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of a multi-lamellar emulsion (MLE) containing the pseudoceramide PC-9S and a synthetic sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) activator, Defensamide™, in improving mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis.

METHODS

Forty patients aged ≥ 2 years were randomized into a combined-therapy group treated with the MLE containing PC-9S and Defensamide™ plus a topical corticosteroid and a topical-corticosteroid-only group. Assessments based on therapeutic methods included the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), skin dryness, a visual analogue scale (VAS) of itchiness, a VAS of sleep disturbance, patient satisfaction, and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients completed this study. In the combined-therapy group, significant improvements in clinical and instrumental measures such as EASI scores, skin hydration, and skin dryness were noted at 4 weeks compared to baseline, but such improvements were not noted in the topical corticosteroid-only group. Subjective assessments of itching and sleep disturbance and DLQI scores also showed significant improvements in the combined-therapy group.

CONCLUSION

Combined therapy with the MLE containing Defensamide™ and PC-9S and with topical corticosteroid demonstrated superior clinical outcomes compared with topical corticosteroid monotherapy. Our findings underscore the potential of MLE-containing formulations as effective adjunctive therapies for AD, offering both objective and subjective symptomatic relief and enhancing patients' quality of life.

Effects of a leave-on product on the strength of the dermoepidermal junction: An exploratory, intraindividual, randomized controlled trial in older adults with dry skin

Background and Aims

Skin aging is associated with dry skin and a decrease of the strength of the dermoepidermal adhesion, which increases the risk for lacerations (skin tears). Application of leave-on products improves dry skin and seems to reduce skin tear incidence. The aim of this study was to measure the effects of a humectant containing leave-on product on the strength of the dermoepidermal junction in older adult participants with dry skin.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial using a split body design was conducted. One forearm was randomly selected and treated with a lipophilic leave-on product containing 5% urea for 8 weeks. The other forearm was the control. The parameters stratum corneum hydration (SCH), transepidermal water loss, pH, roughness, epidermal thickness and skin stiffness were measured at the baseline, Weeks 4 and 8. At Week 8, suction blisters were created and time to blistering was measured. Blister roofs and interstitial fluid were analyzed for Interleukin-1α, 6 and 8.

Results

Twelve participants were included. After 8 weeks treatment, SCH was higher (median difference 11.6 AU), and the overall dry skin score (median difference -1) and median roughness (Rz difference -12.2 µm) were lower compared to the control arms. The median group difference for Interleukin-1α was -452 fg/µg total protein (TP) in the blister roofs and -2.2 fg/µg TP in the blister fluids. The median time to blister formation was 7.7 min higher compared to the control arms.

Conclusion

The regular application of humectant containing leave-on products improves dry skin and seems to lower inflammation and contribute to the strengthening of the dermoepidermal adhesion. This partly explains how the use of topical leave-on products helps to prevent skin tears.

Hand Eczema in High School Students in Poland: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract is missing (Short communication)

The prevalence and severity of dry skin and related skin care in older adult residents in institutional long-term care: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To identify possible factors associated with different severities of xerosis cutis and to describe possible associations between (skin) care dependency and application of moisturizers.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study using baseline data from a cluster-randomized controlled trial. Demographic and health characteristics, skin physiological measurements, functional abilities and application of moisturizers were compared between the participants with mild and severe dry skin. Frequency of moisturization were also compared based on the participants' skin care dependency.

RESULTS

The more distal the body area, the more severe xerosis were observed. There were no or minor differences between the groups, except for the stratum corneum hydration and skin surface pH. Participants with severe xerosis received moisturizers less often. Skin care dependent residents received moisturizers frequently.

CONCLUSION

There is under-application regarding xerosis cutis treatment in long-term care. Skin care provided by nurses, in adequate frequencies, might be helpful compared to skin care performed by the residents themselves.

The medieval skincare routine according to the formulations of Madgistra Trotula and the Medical School of Salerno and its reflection on cosmetology of the third millennium

BACKGROUND

Officinal plants, minerals, animal derivatives, and miscellaneous have always been used to treat and improve appearance despite the different aesthetic canons of a specific historical and cultural context.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to make a critical comparison between medieval and modern dermocosmetics analyzing the works of Trotula de Ruggiero, a female doctor of the 11th century teaching and working inside the illustrious "Medical School of Salerno," who devoted particular attention to the promotion of female care, beauty, and well-being.

METHODS

We applied the historical-critical method analyzing the Latin text and the nglish translation of the standardized corpus of the main Trotula medieval manuscript De Ornatu Mulierum with a multidisciplinary scientific approach ranging from botany to pharmaceutical chemistry and technology, pharmacology and pathology.

RESULTS

We identified the medicinal plants, derivatives of animal origin and minerals used in the recipes of Trotula, highlighting their biological properties in the light of current scientific knowledge. A critical comparison between medieval and modern dermocosmetics is reported also taking into consideration the chemical, pharmaceutical, and technological literature.

CONCLUSION

Beyond the obvious changes in the paradigms of cosmetology and the different beauty canons of Middle Age with respect to modern times, our results emphasize the attention of Trotula to female care, beauty and well-being as well as the extraordinary combination of tradition and modernity in her work.

Increased Prevalence of Face Mask-Induced Itch in Health Care Workers

BACKGROUND

Face mask use has increased significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Health care workers (HCW) wear masks for prolonged periods and are prone to adverse effects. Very little is known about face-mask-associated itch.

METHODS

This Internet survey study investigated the prevalence, intensity and clinical characteristics of itch related to the use of face masks by HCW during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results were subsequently compared to the students' group.

RESULTS

A total of 1156 HCW completed the survey. Among them, 31.6% (365) reported suffering from itch associated with face mask use. Itch was more frequent among females. Moreover, subjects who reported sensitive skin, atopic predispositions and facial dermatoses tended to report itch more frequently. The worst case of itch in the seven days prior to the study, assessed with the numeric rating scale (NRS), was 4.6 ± 2.0 points. Itch prevalence increased along with the duration of face mask use, being 34.6% among those who wore masks for more than 4 h. HCW reported itch significantly more frequently than students.

CONCLUSIONS

Face-mask-associated itch is a frequent problem among HCW in the COVID-19 pandemic. Itch sensation may cause scratching, which may decrease necessary protection during the pandemic.

Itch in the era of COVID-19 pandemic: An unfolding scenario

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2, that broke out in December 2019. In just 4 months it has spread to almost every country in the world and up to April 18, 2020, the virus has infected more than two million people. Itch is the most common symptom in dermatology and a frequent one of systemic diseases. The association of itch and viral diseases has been widely documented; however, the actual prevalence of itch in the patients suffering from new the SARS-CoV-2 infection is still unknown. In this paper, we present a review of the available literature on the topic of itch in the affected population. Moreover, we have also analyzed different aspects of itch associated with COVID-19 pandemic, not directly related to the viral infection. Those included use of chemicals, hand sanitizers, common use of personal protective equipment and psychosocial stress.