35043 A moisturizing cream with panthenol, glycerin, and niacinamide provides superior skin barrier recovery

Abstract

Changes in skin barrier function, caused by both intrinsic (e.g., aging) and extrinsic (e.g., cold weather) factors, can lead to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), dryness, itchiness, and flaky skin among others. Regardless of the cause, restoring skin barrier function is paramount and utilization of moisturizers is foundational. However, there is a paucity of data comparing the relative efficacy between moisturizers in restoring skin barrier function. A clinical study was conducted to assess the barrier recovery kinetics of a moisturizing cream formulated with panthenol, glycerin, and niacinamide (CMC) vs 2 others: a ceramide containing cream CVMC and a daily (ADML). At baseline, 54 subjects had their volar forearm tape stripped until achieving a 100% increase in TEWL. Product was then applied to a separate site in a randomized manner, twice daily for 14 days. The 6th site served as untreated control. All products significantly improved in TEWL and corneometry after 3, 5, 7, and 14 days compared with the untreated site, indicating a beneficial effect on the skin barrier. According to TEWL measurement, CMC was significantly better than CVMC and ADML at barrier recovery at days 3, 5, and 7 (P < .05). CMC was also significantly better at skin hydration than CVMC and ADML on day 3 (P < .05). While all products effectively repaired the skin barrier after 14 days, CMC, provided significantly faster recovery making it ideal where rapid improvement in skin barrier function is needed.