S05.2 Advances in emollient therapy and superficial wound treatment

Abstract

Study objectives Two studies involving human volunteer subjects have been conducted. These studies compared the ability of several ultra‐pure medical grade lanolins (Medilan™ range, Croda Chemicals Europe Ltd.) and Petrolatum USP to reduce the signs and symptoms of dry, cracked hands (Study One) and to promote the healing of superficial wounds (Study Two). Methods Study One, a two‐week treatment period immediately followed by a 9‐day (no treatment) regression period, investigated the signs and symptoms (dryness/scaling, cracking and/or abrasions and pain/itch) of dry, cracked hands. Clinical signs and symptoms were evaluated separately and their severity scored at the time of observation. A retrospective global assessment of overall improvement from baseline was also recorded using digital 35 mm photographs. Study Two investigated the repair of de‐roofed cantharidin‐induced blisters. Wound sites were evaluated and ranked on a daily basis. High‐resolution photographs (20x) were also taken throughout the study prior to daily treatment. Results summary In Study One, at the end of the two‐week treatment period and the 9‐day regression period, hands treated with ultra‐pure medical grade lanolins were superior to hands treated with Petrolatum USP. In Study Two, and particularly at day 10, it was shown that wounds treated with one type of ultra high purity lanolin were unequivocally superior to those treated with Petrolatum USP. Conclusion Ultra‐pure medical grade lanolins have been shown to be superior to White Petrolatum USP in their ability to reduce the signs and symptoms of dry, cracked hands and to promote the healing of superficial wounds.