Reduction In Transepidermal Water Loss Research Articles

A CASE OF TREATMENT OF CONGENITAL ICHTHYOSIS IN A NEWBORN CHILD

Congenital ichthyoses (CI) are a group of rare inherited disorders that cause keratinization defects. This group includes hereditary ichthyosis and hereditary syndromes with ichthyosiform lesions. Offi cial statistics are not yet available in Ukraine. The most common clinical manifestation is nonbullous hyperkeratosis characterized by thick hyperkeratotic scales, skin thickening, severe skin dryness and erythema. In more severe forms – ectropion, eclabion. Skin permeability is increased in CI patients, resulting in increased fl uid and calorie loss, diffi culty in thermoregulation, and reduced elasticity, which limits mobility. Symptoms can vary in severity, but severe manifestations at birth are not always indicative of a more severe course later in life. Challenges in defi nitive diagnosis are due to the need for karyotyping, which is quite expensive. Currently available treatment modalities include continuous moisturization, reduction of transepidermal water loss, control of hyperkeratotic layer thickness (reducing it to a minimum) with local keratolytics, emollients, and systemic retinoids in severe cases. The article presents a clinical case of successful local treatment of CI with a pronounced eff ect without the use of systemic retinoids. The publication of the materials has been approved by the Bioethics Commission of the CI «Regional Medical Center for Family Health» DRC». All anamnestic data, examination results and photographs are provided with prior written consent of the parents. Conclusion. Congenital ichthyoses require careful monitoring. The initial clinical manifestations can not be a marker for the severity of the disease course.

The efficacy of a novel tomato extracts formulation on skin aging and pigmentation: A randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled trial

BackgroundOxidative stress is a significant factor in skin aging and pigmentation, which can be precipitated by various circumstances. Antioxidants and tyrosinase inhibitors, such as carotenoids, yeast extract (glutathione), sodium hyaluronate, astaxanthin, and niacin, can individually protect the skin against aging through distinct mechanisms. These mechanisms potentially enhance the skin barrier and improve signs of aging and pigmentation. However, the synergistic effects of these compounds, as found in a golden tomato extract formulation, have been scarcely explored. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of an orally administered formulation on the skin aging and pigmentation. Material and MethodsIn this study, a randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled trial was conducted, utilizing the WONDERLAB® Tomato Niacinamide beverage. Out of all participants, 62 volunteers completed the experiment and were included in the statistical analysis. ResultsThe results indicated that after eight weeks of consuming the research product, there were no significant changes in the skin indicators within the placebo group. In contrast, the treatment group receiving the sample formulation exhibited a 35.63% increase in stratum corneum hydration and a 29.39% reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), suggesting enhanced skin hydration. Visual assessments revealed improvements in skin color and gloss index by 15.03% and 11.41%, respectively, in the treatment group. Furthermore, the skin gloss and individual typology angle (ITA) value increased by 18.59% and 6.36%, respectively, leading to a lighter skin tone. Significant enhancements were also observed in skin pigmentation, color uniformity, and redness. After eight weeks of intervention with the sample, blood levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) increased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased. ConclusionThese findings confirm that continuous intake of the tomato extract formulation over eight weeks effectively improved the volunteers' skin whitening and hydration, and visibly brightened skin tone through an antioxidant mechanism.

Dietary Intervention of Prebiotic Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum Improves Skin Viscoelasticity, Stratum Corneum Hydration, and Reduction of Trans-Epidermal Water Loss: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study in Healthy Humans

Dietary Intervention of Prebiotic Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum Improves Skin Viscoelasticity, Stratum Corneum Hydration, and Reduction of Trans-Epidermal Water Loss: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study in Healthy Humans

Studies on the formulation and functionality of an innovative line of topical products for atopic skin

Dermocosmetics are products intended for sensitive and problematic skin. They are a good solution for additional care of skin affected by conditions such as atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, or for couperose skin. The compounds of particular importance in the care of atopic skin include ceramides, ectoine, hyaluronic acid, vitamins A and E, as well as natural vegetable oils. The aim of this work was to develop a qualitative and quantitative approach and to investigate the characteristics of formulations such as a face cream, a topical cream, a body lotion, and a cleansing foam, dedicated to patients with atopic dermatitis. The newly developed cosmetic formulations showed good physical and chemical characteristics, typical of this type of product. They were also structurally and microbiologically stable during storage at various temperatures. Dermatological tests did not reveal any irritating or allergenic properties. The best data were obtained for the face cream, namely improvement of skin hydration by 21.88%, reduction of transepidermal water loss by 15.86%, alleviation of erythema by 15.77%, and of skin sensitivity by 17.20%. This work resulted in the preparation of innovative dermocosmetics to be used for atopic skin. The cosmetics have a unique composition and delicate formula, show high biofunctionality, and meet all the requirements for cosmetic products intended for marketing.

A Study of Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Lotion on Facial Skin in Photoaged Healthy Adults.

Background Facial skin has an essential cosmetic function in both men and women, and photoaged skin can affect the quality of life in healthy people.Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) which is also called Indian ginseng hasadaptogenic properties and is used in traditional Indian medicine to maintainbalance, energize, and rejuvenate. Objective This randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study assessed the efficacy and safety of topical application of lotion containing 8% standardized Ashwagandha root extract on improvement of skin parameters in the photoaged facial skin of healthy subjects. Methods Fifty-six healthy men and women aged between 18 and 60 years with Fitzpatrick phototype III-VI skin grade were randomized to receive the topical application (lotion on facial skin) of either Ashwagandha 8% (AG, n=28), or an identical placebo (PL, n=28) for 60 days. The primary outcome was the change from baseline on day 60 in the scores for global physician assessment scoring for the five dermatological signs (skin wrinkles, pores, hydration/moisture, skin brightness/tone, and pigmentation) on facial skin. Secondary outcomes were changes from baseline in the transepidermal water loss (TEWL), melanin index, hydration, and skin elasticity (R2 ratio). Another efficacy outcome was quality of life using the health-specific Short Form Health Survey-12 (SF-12). Safety was assessed using local reactions and adverse events. Three (1 AG, 2 PL) patients were lost to follow-up and per-protocol (PP) data included 53 patients (27 AG, 26 PL). For measurement data, repeated measures analysis of variance(ANOVA) was used to assess treatment effect at different time periods in the PP dataset (n=53). Two groups were compared for differences using a t-test for continuous data or a Mann-Whitney 'U' test for ordinal data. Adverse events were compared between two groups using the chi-square test. Results Greater reduction (p<0.0001) in total physician assessment scores from baseline to day 60 was observed with AG (-74.69%) compared to PL (-48.68%). There was a greater improvement in TEWL, skin hydration, and skin elasticity (R2 ratio) with AG as compared to placebo (p<0.0001). However, the change in melanin index was similar in the two groups at the end of day 60 (p=0.969). The percentage increase in melanin index from baseline to day 60 in the PP dataset was by -2.82% with AG and -1.78% with PL, whereas the percentage reduction in TEWL from baseline to day 60 in the PP dataset was by -15.12% with AG and -8.34% with PL.Similarly, greater percentage improvements were seen with AG as compared to PL for skin hydration (20.66% with AG and 9.5% with PL) and elasticity was assessed by the R2 ratio (16.34% with AG and 3.73% with PL). Adverse events were comparable in the two groups. Conclusions Topical application of a lotion containing Ashwagandha standardized root extract improves the skin condition and quality of life in photoaged healthy individuals. Further studies with different skin types and standard comparators are warranted to substantiate these claims of benefit.

Film-Forming Properties of Topical Formulations for Skin and Hair: In Vivo and In Vitro Studies Using Biophysical and Imaging Techniques.

The film-forming effect is an important property of formulations for skin improvement and hair protection. Reflectance confocal microscopy, an advanced imaging technique, is an important tool for its evaluation. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the film-forming properties of cosmetic formulations based on starches and containing a Spirulina maxima extract after their application to skin and hair, using sensorial analysis and instrumental measurements, with emphasis on reflectance confocal microscopy. Two formulations based on starches and PEG-75 lanolin containing or not (Vehicle) a Spirulina maxima dry extract were developed. The rheological behavior and sensorial properties of both formulations were evaluated. The film-forming property on the skin was evaluated in terms of skin hydration by RCM imaging analysis and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The hair tresses were evaluated in terms of mechanical properties and RCM imaging analysis. The formulations showed pseudoplastic behavior and a low hysteresis area. In addition, the presence of Spirulina in the formulation did not interfere in the rheological parameters. Both formulations reduced TEWL and maintained the stratum corneum water content. The protective effect was also observed in the hair, since the application of the formulation with Spirulina showed a better performance in the tensile test when compared to vehicle. Thus, the proposed formulation showed film formation on the skin and hair surface that brought immediate benefits such as a reduction of TEWL. Finally, the formulations were shown to have film-forming effects and their use can be suggested for skin and hair protection against daily damage.

Dieckol Isolated from Eisenia bicyclis Ameliorates Wrinkling and Improves Skin Hydration via MAPK/AP-1 and TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathways in UVB-Irradiated Hairless Mice.

Repetitive exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) is one of the main causes of skin photoaging. We previously reported that dieckol isolated from Eisenia bicyclis extract has potential anti-photoaging effects in UVB-irradiated Hs68 cells. Here, we aimed to evaluate the anti-photoaging activity of dieckol in a UVB-irradiated hairless mouse model. In this study, hairless mice were exposed to UVB for eight weeks. At the same time, dieckol at two doses (5 or 10 mg/kg) was administered orally three times a week. We found that dieckol suppressed UVB-induced collagen degradation and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-1, -3, and -9 expression by regulating transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/Smad2/3 and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/activator protein-1 (AP-1) signaling. In addition, dieckol rescued the production of hyaluronic acid (HA) and effectively restored the mRNA expression of hyaluronan synthase (HAS)-1/-2 and hyaluronidase (HYAL)-1/-2 in UVB-irradiated hairless mice. We observed a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), epidermal/dermal thickness, and wrinkle formation in hairless mice administered dieckol. Based on these results, we suggest that dieckol, due to its anti-photoaging role, may be used as a nutricosmetic ingredient for improving skin health.

The Impact of Kefir on Epidermal Water Homeostasis in Healthy Human Skin.

Kefir, a symbiotic consortium of diverse bacteria and yeasts, is one of the most popular probiotic foods on the market. Its consumption has been referred to as beneficial in human skin health, namely in the reinforcement of skin’s barrier function. This benefit likely results from the productive activity of lactic acid bacteria during kefir fermentation. Lactic acid is naturally present in the skin, and actively contributes to epidermal water dynamics and “barrier.” Few studies have been conducted regarding the impact of probiotic consumption in human epidermal water homeostasis. Therefore, this study was designed to explore the impact of the regular consumption of kefir on the skin water dynamics in a group of participants with healthy skin. Participants (n = 27) were healthy female volunteers from whom twelve consumed 100 mL of kefir every day for eight weeks as part of their diet. The remaining (untreated) participants served as the control group. Epidermal water balance was assessed by measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum (SC) hydration on three different occasions—at baseline (T0), after four weeks (T4) and after eight weeks (T8) of interventive kefir consumption. Our study revealed a significant reduction in TEWL (p = 0.043) in the kefir group after eight weeks of regular consumption. In the same period, no differences were found for TEWL in the control group (p = 0.997). Regarding hydration, skin dryness was progressive in the control group, with a significant reduction in SC hydration (p = 0.002) at T8 in comparison to T0. In the kefir group, SC hydration was preserved between T0 and T8 (p = 0.997), which we believe to be related to epidermal “barrier” reinforcement. Our study seems to confirm that the regular consumption of kefir does improve cutaneous water balance even in healthy skin.

Oral collagen supplements intake on improving skin structure and function

Introduction: Young and healthy skin is a beauty standard that generates the necessity of acceptance. Collagen supplements have recently grown in popularity and become a trendy product advertised as a remedy for various skin problems. As it turns out, numerous scientific studies have shown the benefits of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation in improving the signs of skin ageing. There are various animal sources of collagen, but marine fish collagen has the best safety profile, biocompatibility and bioavailability and remains the most frequent product used in scientific trials. Among newest randomised-control trials five were researched for this study to evaluate the efficacy of collagen supplementation and its influence of skin appearance with both objective and subjective assessment.&#x0D; State of knowledge: hydrolysed collagen supplementation demonstrated a significant reduction in wrinkles, improvement in skin texture, firmness and appearance. Moreover, studies show significant enhancement of the water content in the stratum corneum and epidermis. Reduction of transepidermal water loss and increased level of natural moisturising factor was observed. &#x0D; Conclusions: hydrolysed collagen supplements can delay and improve the signs of skin ageing by decreasing facial wrinkles and improving skin hydration and elasticity. Supplement intake is effective and safe - analysed studies have not reported any major adverse effects. Since reviewed trials lasted for no longer than 12 weeks, further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term use of hydrolysed collagen peptides.

A cream containing the sap of oat plantlets and mandarin extract soothes the symptoms of rosacea and improves the quality of life of patients.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease of the facial skin that affects all skin types and occurs mostly in adults. The main clinical sign of rosacea is a characteristic and persistent form of centro-facial erythema that is prone to exacerbation and can impair quality of life (QoL). The current therapeutic approach for rosacea is to combine various treatments, use appropriate skincare products and avoid flare-up triggers. To evaluate the use of a facial skincare product containing protein-free sap extruded from Rhealba® oat plantlets and mandarin extract in subjects with rosacea. Three clinical studies were conducted in adult subjects with various rosacea phenotypes (erythematotelangiectatic or papulopustular) and treatment histories to assess the dermatological and ophthalmological tolerance of the study product, as well as its clinical effectiveness, after a twice-daily application on the whole face and neck for up to 4 weeks. Tolerance of the product was rated as good to very good by dermatologists across the three studies, which involved a total of 105 evaluable subjects. Subjects with untreated erythematotelangiectatic rosacea reported fewer functional signs and symptoms of the disease and an improved QoL. The evaluation of skin biometric parameters revealed a reduction in transepidermal water loss, indicating that the study product helped to restore skin barrier integrity after 4 weeks, and a higher skin pH, indicating that the cutaneous microbiote was respected. Most subjects (93%) who had either undergone a superficial dermatological procedure for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea or were taking oral/topical treatments for papulopustular rosacea, rated the study product as very good (8/10) and felt it further relieved their symptoms. Overall, the study product was very well tolerated and may be beneficial for subjects with rosacea as an adjunct to superficial dermatological procedures or oral/topical therapies, in line with the current recommendations for rosacea management.

Effect of cosmetic films with ascorbic acid and hyaluronic acid on transepidermal water loss

Cosmetic films are structures made of a polymer capable of forming a continuous matrix. Collagen and hyaluronic acid (HA) are components of the skin extracellular matrix and act to maintain its elasticity and resistance. Ascorbic acid (AA) acts in the formation of collagen fibers, contributing to the maintenance of their firmness and elasticity. This study aimed to evaluate the moisturizing properties of cosmetic films with AA or HA in their composition. It was also investigated whether the presence of caprylyl glycol would interfere with the TWEL of the formulations. The occlusive properties of the films were assessed based on the reduction of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in 20 healthy participants using a Tewameter probe. At T30, 30 minutes after application, all formulations showed a reduction in TEWL compared to the control. In general, the formulations that included caprylyl glycol presented the best TEWL results after 30 min of application. However, after 60 minutes, the transepidermal water loss began to return to its basal levels. This study showed a significant difference in the TEWL value, suggesting that the topical application of the films can contribute to the improvement and maintenance of skin hydration. Keywords: cosmetic films; collagen; hyaluronic acid; ascorbic acid; skin barrier

Clinical effect of delgocitinib 0.5% ointment on atopic dermatitis eczema intensity and skin barrier function

AbstractObjectivesDelgocitinib is a small‐molecule JAK inhibitor that has recently been approved in Japan as the world's first topical JAK/STAT pathway inhibitor for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). In this study, the effects of delgocitinib 0.5% ointment treatment on skin rash severity and skin‐barrier function were examined.MethodsAdult Japanese patients with mild‐moderate AD (n = 23) were recruited into the trial. Healthy subjects (n = 10) were examined in parallel. The effects of four weeks of treatment with delgocitinib 0.5% ointment on the partial eczema area and severity index (pEASI) score, stratum corneum hydration (SCH), and trans‐epidermal water‐loss (TEWL) were examined. Patient reported effects of the treatment were assessed by a questionnaire.ResultsFour weeks of treatment showed a statistically significant improvement (p &lt; .001) in pEASI score of 61.8%, ±54.0 (mean%, SD) compared to baseline in AD patients. Improvement in SCH at four weeks (37.6AU, ±11.5 (mean, SD), p &lt; .001) was achieved in AD patients compared to baseline (SCH = 24.9AU, ±8.8 (mean, SD)). A trend toward reduction in TEWL over time was seen in the active treatment group (TEWL = 9.1 g/h/m2 at baseline, 7.1 g/h/m2 at two weeks, and 6.9 g/h/m2 at 4 weeks). The pEASI score and SCH and TEWL values improved from two‐to‐four weeks treatment. Patients reported perceived improvements after four weeks of treatment on all parameters associated with skin condition. No safety concerns were identified.ConclusionsTreatment with delgocitinib 0.5% ointment was well tolerated and showed improvements of both eczema and SCH in adult AD patients.

Comparison of transepidermal water loss and skin hydration in diabetics and nondiabetics.

Pruritus is common in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), and may lead to complex dermatological conditions if left untreated. Pruritus can be caused by increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and reduced skin hydration. To compare TEWL and skin hydration in patients with DM and controls, and to investigate associations between TEWL and skin hydration with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood sugar (FBS), treatment, peripheral neuropathy (PN) and age in patients with diabetes. This was a prospective, case-control study carried out at a tertiary medical centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. TEWL and skin hydration measurements were taken at six different body sites in both groups. In total, 146 patients (73 cases, 73 controls) were included (24 men and 49 women in each group). No significant difference in TEWL or skin hydration was seen between patients with DM and controls, but there were significant reductions in skin hydration in patients with DM who had FBS > 7mmol/L (P<0.01) or PN (P<0.01). There was a reduction in TEWL over the anterior shin in patients with HbA1c levels > 6.5% (P<0.02) and an increase in TEWL on the flank in patients on insulin injections at doses of > 1U/kg/day (P<0.01). In participants > 45years old, there was a significant reduction in TEWL (P=0.04) and hydration (P<0.04) in the DM and control groups, respectively. There was no difference in TEWL and skin hydration in patients with DM compared with controls. In the DM group, reduction in skin hydration was associated with uncontrolled FBS and PN but not with HbA1c or DM treatment, whereas TEWL was lower in patients with FBS > 8mmol/L and increased in patients with higher insulin requirement.

Application of biophysical and skin imaging techniques to evaluate the film-forming effect of cosmetic formulations.

Products with film-forming effect, or 'second skin', which guarantees an immediate protective effect after application, is a highlight, especially when composed of natural ingredients. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the immediate film-forming effect on skin of a gel and emulsion formulations added with Kappaphycus alvarezii and Caesalpinia spinosa extracts through biophysical and skin imaging techniques, especially with the Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM). The measurements were done in the forearm region before (baseline) and 1h after of application of the developed formulation and its control. The parameters related to the stratum corneum water content, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), cutaneous microrelief and morphological and structural characteristics of the epidermis were analysed through the following biophysical and skin imaging techniques: Corneometer® CM 825, Tewameter® TM 300, Visioscan® VC98 and Vivascope® 1500, respectively. A sensorial analysis was also performed to study how the formulations were perceived on the skin. The obtained results showed that the active ingredient under study allows the film formation on the skin surface, leading to a reduction of TEWL and skin desquamation. The obtained images from RCM showed a reduction of furrows on the skin surface and a film formation after a single application of the formulations. However, these effects were more pronounced in the emulsion formulation, which suggests a synergistic effect of the active ingredient under study with the emollients of formulation composition. This result was also observed in the sensorial analysis, as both formulations added with the active substance were well evaluated. The presence of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Caesalpinia spinosa extracts in the studied cosmetic formulations, enabled a film formation on a skin surface, bringing benefits as a reduction of transepidermal water loss and skin desquamation, as well as a furrows reduction and an improvement of stratum corneum after 1h of application. Finally, the skin imaging techniques can be suggested as an excellent tool to evaluate a film-forming effect of cosmetic formulations.

Combined effects of glycerol and petrolatum in an emollient cream: A randomized, double‐blind, crossover study in healthy volunteers with dry skin

The stratum corneum plays an important protective physiological role in providing a barrier to preventing skin desiccation and penetration of external agents. Emollients are used commonly to improve barrier function and skin hydration. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of an emollient, V0034CR cream, and its active ingredients, to restore the cutaneous barrier. Secondary objectives included assessment of the moisturizing activity of each product and tolerance. The study was not designed to evaluate therapeutic benefit. In this randomized, double-blind, 4-arm crossover, clinical pharmacology study, the full emollient V0034CR, its vehicle formulation alone, or with glycerol, or petrolatum, was applied to the forearms of healthy volunteers (n=51) with dry skin (Kligman score of 2 or 3). Cutaneous permeability by Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) and skin moisture content by corneometry were serially measured for 12hours following application. An analysis of variance with repeated measures was performed on the evolution of TEWL and corneometry. V0034CR emollient significantly reduced mean TEWL compared to vehicle (P=.0018) and vehicle + glycerol (P=.0001) and significantly increased mean corneometry scores compared to vehicle (P<.0001) and vehicle + petrolatum (P<.0001). The emollient V0034CR presented combined effects, with the petrolatum component improving skin barrier function, with a reduction in TEWL, and the glycerol component improving skin hydration.

Efficacy of a Topical Formulation of Sodium Bicarbonate in Mild to Moderate Stable Plaque Psoriasis: a Randomized, Blinded, Intrapatient, Controlled Study.

IntroductionPsoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of erythematosquamous lesions. A wide variety of topical treatments for therapy of this pathology are available, including sodium bicarbonate (SB). A few papers reported in literature focus on use of SB baths for treatment of psoriasis, but none assess evidence concerning the efficacy of SB topical preparations. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a galenic SB in lanette vax formulation compared with lanette vax base in mild to moderate stable plaque psoriasis.MethodsA randomized, double-blind, intrapatient, controlled study was performed in 28 days. Thirty patients of both genders were selected for testing. A blinded investigator evaluated the patients’ psoriasis using a modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body surface area (BSA), and objective parameters using sensors (Multiprobe Adapter MPA5; Courage & Khazaka Electronic GmbH, Cologne, Germany).ResultsData analysis of objective parameters highlighted that use of the SB topical preparation led to no improvement in skin hydration, no reduction in transepidermal water loss, and no decrease of erythema. The modified PASI and BSA did not change from baseline.ConclusionsThe results obtained show that use of the studied product did not improve psoriatic lesions.

The atopic dermatitis-like lesion and the associated MRSA infection and barrier dysfunction can be alleviated by 2,4-dimethoxy-6-methylbenzene-1,3-diol from Antrodia camphorata

BackgroundAtopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory skin disease with an associated barrier dysfunction and Staphylococcus aureus infection. The mainstay steroid and calcineurin inhibitor therapy shows some adverse effects. 2,4-Dimethoxy-6-methylbenzene-1,3-diol (DMD) is a benzenoid isolated from Antrodia camphorata. ObjectiveWe investigated the inhibitory effect of DMD on methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), the chemokine production in stimulated keratinocytes, and the AD-like lesion found in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice. MethodsThe antimicrobial effect and cutaneous barrier function were evaluated using an in vitro culture model and an in vivo mouse model of AD-like skin. ResultsDMD exhibited a comparative minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against MRSA with nalidixic acid, a conventional antibiotic. The MIC and MBC for DMD was 78.1 and 156.3 μg/ml, respectively. DMD also showed the ability to eliminate the clinical bacteria isolates with resistance to methicillin and vancomycin. The DNA polymerase and gyrase inhibition evoked by DMD for bacterial lethality was proposed. In the activated keratinocytes, DMD stopped the upregulation of chemokines (CCL5 and CCL17) and increased the expression of differentiation proteins (filaggrin, involucrin, and integrin β-1). Topical application of DMD facilely penetrated into the skin, with AD-like skin displaying 2.5-fold greater permeation than healthy skin. The in vivo assessment using the mouse model with OVA sensitization and MRSA inoculation revealed a reduction of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and bacterial burden by DMD by about 2- and 100-fold, respectively. Differentiation proteins were also restored after topical DMD delivery. ConclusionOur data demonstrated an advanced concept of AD treatment by combined barrier repair and bacterial eradication with a sole agent for ameliorating the overall complications.

The influence of natural functional clothing on some biophysical parameters of the skin

The objectives of the study were to develop functional natural fiber clothing with microcapsules containing active herbal extracts with properties enhancing the treatment of dermatoses and to confirm the efficiency of the clothing's activity by testing its effect on the biophysical parameters of human skin. As a result of the work, clothing enriched with green tea and Viola tricolor extracts enclosed in ethyl cellulose microcapsules was produced. The microcapsules were applied on the inner surface of linen knitted fabric, which ensured direct contact of the active substances with the patients' affected skin. The efficiency of the clothing was tested according to our own methodology, which included wearing tests, microbiological tests of the skin and tests of skin moisture, transepidermal water loss and itching intensity. Also, the effect of the active substances present on the fabrics on the in vitro culture of human keratinocytes was evaluated. The test results confirmed that linen clothing enriched with medicinal plant extracts enclosed in microcapsules had an effect on the reduction of itching intensity, an increase in skin moisture, reduction of transepidermal water loss and a reduction of pathogenic bacterial colonies residing on the patients' skin. They confirmed that the new method of administering herbal substances to the skin of dermatological patients via the wearing of functional clothing is effective and leads to symptom relief. The studies allowed for the filing of a patent submission, number P 411869, titled “The clothing acting as a dressing supplement in the therapy of dermatological diseases.”

Preparation of Keratin Hydrolysate from Chicken Feathers and Its Application in Cosmetics.

Keratin hydrolysates (KHs) are established standard components in hair cosmetics. Understanding the moisturizing effects of KH is advantageous for skin-care cosmetics. The goals of the protocol are: (1) to process chicken feathers into KH by alkaline-enzymatic hydrolysis and purify it by dialysis, and (2) to test if adding KH into an ointment base (OB) increases hydration of the skin and improves skin barrier function by diminishing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). During alkaline-enzymatic hydrolysis feathers are first incubated at a higher temperature in an alkaline environment and then, under mild conditions, hydrolyzed with proteolytic enzyme. The solution of KH is dialyzed, vacuum dried, and milled to a fine powder. Cosmetic formulations comprising from oil in water emulsion (O/W) containing 2, 4, and 6 weight% of KH (based on the weight of the OB) are prepared. Testing the moisturizing properties of KH is carried out on 10 men and 10 women at time intervals of 1, 2, 3, 4, 24, and 48 h. Tested formulations are spread at degreased volar forearm sites. The skin hydration of stratum corneum (SC) is assessed by measuring capacitance of the skin, which is one of the most world-wide used and simple methods. TEWL is based on measuring the quantity of water transported per a defined area and period of time from the skin. Both methods are fully non-invasive. KH makes for an excellent occlusive; depending on the addition of KH into OB, it brings about a 30% reduction in TEWL after application. KH also functions as a humectant, as it binds water from the lower layers of the epidermis to the SC; at the optimum KH addition in the OB, up to 19% rise in hydration in men and 22% rise in women occurs.

A randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of a new skincare regimen on skin barrier function in those with podoconiosis in Ethiopia

Podoconiosis affects an estimated 3 million people in Ethiopia with a further 19 million at risk. Volcanic soil and pathogens enter skin breaches in the feet causing inflammation, lymphoedema and hyperkeratosis. There is no robust evidence on optimal podoconiosis skincare regimens to improve skin barrier function (SBF). To evaluate the effectiveness of a new, low-cost, evidence-based intervention to improve SBF in the lower limbs of those with podoconiosis. A randomized controlled trial (NCT02839772) was conducted over 3 months in two podoconiosis clinics (n = 193). The intervention comprised 2% (v/v) glycerine added to a reduced volume of soaking water. The control group received the current skincare regimen. Primary outcome measures were transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum hydration (SCH) at four specific sites on the lower limbs. Improvement in SBF was observed in both groups across all measurement sites and time points, although this was significantly greater in the experimental group. TEWL reduced in both groups at all sites. For example, on top of the foot the estimated group difference in TEWL at visit 4 was 1·751 [standard error (SE) = 0·0390] in favour of the experimental group [t = 3·15, degrees of freedom (df) = 189·58, P = 0·002, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·066-2·85], indicating a greater reduction in TEWL in the experimental group. Similarly, at the same site the estimated group difference in SCH at visit 4 was -2·041 (SE = 0·572) in favour of the experimental group (t = -3·56, df = 186·74, P < 0·001, 95% CI -3·16 to -0·91), indicating a greater increase in SCH in the experimental group. There were also significantly greater reductions in odour, number of wounds and largest foot circumference in the experimental vs. the control group. The addition of 2% (v/v) glycerol to a reduced volume (83% reduction) of soaking water significantly improved SBF.