Self-perceived Sensitive Skin Research Articles

An Over-the-Counter Healing Ointment: Benefits in Dry Skin and Wound Healing.

The use of ointments can be beneficial for dry, chapped, or cracked skin and also for supporting wound healing. We describe the results of 2 studies with an over-the-counter healing ointment (HO) to evaluate the effects on skin hydration and in the setting of wound healing after dermatologic procedures.  Methods: Study 1 was a single-center, in-use study using HO on qualified areas at least once daily for 4 weeks in subjects with dry, cracked body skin and self-perceived sensitive skin. Study 2 was a multi-center study of wound healing in subjects using HO on a daily basis after having dermatologic surgical procedures.  Results: In Study 1, there was a significant reduction in skin dryness after 1 and 4 weeks of HO use (P<0.05). Image analysis of the skin revealed a significant increase in skin smoothness after the first application of HO in 100% of subjects (P<0.05). Tolerability and safety were excellent, and HO was well-perceived by subjects throughout the study. In Study 2, HO improved clinical assessments at all time points compared with baseline with a decrease in erythema, edema, scabbing/crusting, and an improvement in overall wound appearance (P<0.05). There was no worsening or significant increase in measures for tolerability parameters at any study visits. Additionally, HO achieved a favorable perception by study subjects.  Conclusions: HO has a well-established safety profile and has been shown to improve both skin hydration and the overall wound healing process after dermatologic surgical procedures. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(5):360-365. doi:10.36849/JDD.8224.

Safety-in-use test of facial cosmetic products on normal and self-assessed sensitive skin subjects.

Safety-in-use (SIU) studies are commonly used by the cosmetic Industry to confirm the skin and ocular compatibility of cosmetic products under realistic in-use conditions. There are only limited case studies published about the design, outcome and interpretation of product SIU studies. A series of SIU case studies is presented to demonstrate the considerations in study design and how the methodology can help in supporting skin and ocular safety profile of facial cosmetic products within a population of different ethnicities with normal and self-perceived sensitive skin. In a series of four single-blinded SIU studies, more than 250 female study subjects of different ethnicities and with normal and self-assessed sensitive skin were asked to use different facial cosmetic products including lotions, essences and cleansers according to the instructed usage conditions of these products. Each study was specifically designed according to product usage scenarios and target consumer groups. The primary measures of safety were based on dermal evaluations by a dermatologist for erythema and dryness/scaling and by an ophthalmologist for any visible signs of an ocular condition on eyelids, conjunctivae and cornea. The study subjects were also asked for any self-perceived skin or eye reactions. Dermal and ocular irritation potential of the products under realistic product usage conditions was evaluated according to the measures. Across all studies, objectively and self-assessed mean scores for skin and eye effects did not indicate any cumulative response of the investigated products over the study period. As a suitable tool for assessing and establishing the skin and eye compatibility of facial cosmetic products, SIU studies can be designed according to specific consumer groups, skin types and product usage scenarios to better predict realistic in-use conditions. It can demonstrate the safe use of the investigated products for people of different ethnicities, skin types and with normal or self-assessed sensitive skin, single product use or regimen use. The test results are consistent with the inherently low irritation potential of the products.

Moisturizing at a molecular level - The basis of Corneocare.

This review covers the last 20 years of research we and our collaborators have conducted on ethnic differences in facial skin moisturization placed in historical context with previous research. We have focussed particularly on the biochemical and cellular gradients of the stratum corneum (SC) with the aim of discovering new skin moisturization and SC maturation mechanisms, identifying new technologies and/or providing conceptual innovations for ingredients that will improve our understanding and treatment of dry skin. Specifically, we discuss gradients for corneodesmosomes and proteases, corneocyte phenotype-inducing enzymes, filaggrin and natural moisturizing factor (NMF), and barrier lipids. These gradients are interdependent and influence greatly corneocyte maturation. The interrelationship between corneodesmolysis and the covalent attachment of ω-hydroxy ceramides and ω-hydroxy fatty acids to the corneocyte protein envelope forming the corneocyte lipid envelope is especially relevant in our new understanding of mechanisms leading to dry skin. This process is initiated by a linoleoyl-ω-acyl ceramide transforming enzyme cascade including 12R lipoxygenase (12R-LOX), epidermal lipoxygenase-3 (eLOX3), epoxide hydrolase 3 (EPHX3), short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase family 9C member 7 (SDR9C7), ceramidase and transglutaminase 1. Our research has opened the opportunity of using novel treatment systems for dry skin based on lipids, humectants, niacinamide and inhibitors of the plasminogen system. It is clear that skin moisturization is a more complex mechanism than simple skin hydration.

Combining Topical and Oral Botanicals for Skin Redness, Pigmentation, Sleep, and Mood: A Randomized Controlled Study.

External and internal stressors have been found to adversely affect skin health and overall wellness. There is growing interest in the use of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant plant-derived ingredients, such as ashwagandha, saffron, l-theanine, and tocopherol, to mitigate the impact of these stressors. In this study, we evaluate the effectiveness of oral and topical products (InnerCalm and SuperCalm, respectively) that contain naturally derived ingredients on skin redness, skin pigmentation, sleep, and mood in healthy females with Fitzpatrick skin type 1-4 and self-perceived sensitive skin. Subjects were randomized to an oral (oral group), a topical (topical group), or a combination of both the oral and topical interventions (combined group). Standardized photography-based image analysis was used to assess skin redness and pigment. Self-assessments of mood and sleep were measured with the abbreviated profile of mood states (POMS) questionnaire, and the Pittsburgh sleep-quality index (PSQI), respectively. Assessments were made at the baseline, 1-week, 4-weeks, and 8-weeks of the intervention. The average facial redness decreased in the topical group at 8-weeks (p < 0.001) and in the combined group at 4-weeks (p < 0.05) and 8-weeks (p < 0.001), relative to the baseline. The average facial pigmentation decreased in the oral (p < 0.05) and combined (p < 0.05) cohorts at 8-weeks, relative to the baseline. The oral group exhibited an improvement in sleep quality at 1-week relative to the baseline (p < 0.05) and at 8-weeks relative to the baseline (p < 0.05). Finally, the combined group demonstrated improvement in fatigue (p < 0.01) and confusion (p < 0.05) at 8-weeks relative to the baseline, though total mood disturbance increased in all 3 groups over the course of the study. Measured outcomes relating to mood may be confounded with the timing of the study, which ran during the COVID pandemic. Overall, we demonstrate the role of oral and topical herbs and of nutraceuticals for skin health and wellness. Further research will be needed to elucidate synergistic effects in oral and topical combination regimens.

379 I’m sensitive! Understanding the patient experience of self-reported sensitive skin

Consumer self-reported sensitive skin has become more prevalent yet there is limited knowledge on exactly what sensitive skin is and the skin attributes associated with sensitive skin. An online survey was conducted with 1,000 participants in the US with two key objectives: 1) understand who sensitive skin sufferers are and 2) understand their skin concerns and experiences with skin care products. Consumer insights on the most commonly perceived sensitivity triggers, symptoms, and associated skin conditions were evaluated. Almost 65% of those who self-identify as having sensitive skin discover their sensitivity before they are 30 years old. In addition, those who self-identify as extremely sensitive are about 200% more likely to have been diagnosed with eczema, rosacea, acne vulgaris, or skin allergies than those who identify as slightly sensitive. Moreover, itchiness (74%), dryness (61%), and redness (64%) are the most prevalent skin reactions among self-perceived sensitive skin consumers. This study contributes to the overall understanding of consumers who self-report as having sensitive skin and provides important context to healthcare professionals on the sensitive skin experience.

Research on the Skin Concerns of Consumers with Sensitive Skin and Their Attitude and Behavior Toward Derma Products

Consumer reports of self-perceived sensitive skin vary from country to country, with China being the most common. It is a booming market, and it is both an opportunity and challenge for companies who manufacture cosmetics and personal care products to develop sensitive skin-specific products. A study on the cognition of sensitive skin and the evaluation criteria of self-perceived sensitive skin among consumers via comparison by region (China and Singapore), as well as the categories and functions of cosmetics for sensitive skin is conducted. The results are as follows: (1) the skin concerns of consumers with sensitive skin vary by region (China and Singapore), city (Shanghai, Beijing, Wuhan, and Guangzhou), skin type (dry skin and oily skin), and age group (20s and 30s) in China; (2) the participants from Singapore reported more new skin concerns (acne or pimple breakout, clogged pores, and acne scars or acne spots) compared to those from China and believe that the frequency increased following COVID-19; (3) more Singaporean participants perceived “Inappropriate use of skin care products” and “Used products containing harmful ingredient” to be the primary cause of skin sensitivity, whereas those from China felt that “Incomplete makeup removal” is the primary cause; (4) facing skin sensitivity, the participants from both the countries tend to use products specifically designed for sensitive skin and reduce the frequency of using makeup or avoid makeup altogether; the participants from China would also modify their lifestyle habits, while those from Singapore tend to simplify or shorten their skincare routine; (5) compared to other cities, the participants from Wuhan tend to use products specifically design for sensitive skin or derma cosmetics at a lower rate (only when there are signs of skin sensitivity); (6) serum is the most used category among Singaporean participants, while those from China favor the use of face cream over face serum; the number of participants from China who use makeup remover among those in their 20s is higher than those in their 30s; lotion or emulsion is preferred in Shanghai, while face cream is preferred in Beijing; (7) Singaporean participants tend to use two separate products, one of which is related to soothing or calming benefit and the other for functional benefit, while those from China tend to choose functional products from brands that are suitable for sensitive skin or derma cosmetic brands. In conclusion, makeup products for sensitive skin, mild makeup removal, and functional products from derma cosmetic brands are potential products in China, while multi-purpose products and serum have shown high potential under the sensitive skincare category in Singapore.

Questionnaire and Lactic Acid Sting Test Play Different Role on the Assessment of Sensitive Skin: A Cross-sectional Study.

BackgroundQuestionnaires and lactic acid sting test (LAST) are two widely used methods to identify sensitive skin. However, the self-perceived sensitive skin by questionnaires was not consistent with the determination of LAST.ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to measure the biophysical properties noninvasively of sensitive skin evaluated by questionnaire and LAST and to investigate their correlations with the scores of questionnaire and LAST.MethodsA total of 209 healthy Chinese females completed the study. Self-assessment questionnaire and LAST were both performed to identify sensitive skin. Epidermal biophysical properties, including skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum content, erythema index (EI), a* value, L* value, skin elasticity, and skin pH, were measured with noninvasive instruments.ResultsThe frequency of sensitive skin was 50.2% and 66.0% by questionnaire and LAST, respectively. Subjects with self-assessed sensitive skin had a slightly higher LAST positive rate. Skin hydration, sebum content, a* and EI values were significantly higher in the self-assessed sensitive skin group, while TEWL, a* and EI values increased but L* value decreased with significance in the LAST positive group. The LAST stingers among sensitive skin subjects had higher EI but not in the healthy skin subjects. In addition, questionnaire scores positively correlated with skin hydration, sebum content, a* and EI values, while a positive relationship of LAST scores with TEWL, a* and EI values was observed. The scores of questionnaire and LAST both negatively related to L* value.ConclusionSelf-assessed questionnaire is associated with sensitive skin featured by oily and red face without impaired barrier function, whereas LAST is suitable to identify fragile skin barrier and enhanced blood flow on the face. Combination of both methods to diagnose sensitive skin might be more reliable.

A Survey to Identify Determinants That Influence Self-Perceived Sensitive Skin in a British Population: Clues to Developing a Reliable Screening Tool for Sensitive Skin.

BackgroundSkin sensitivity characteristics and triggers have been identified in populations in previous studies. However, few have compared these characteristics among self-reported sensitive skin.ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to evaluate and compare specific intrinsic and extrinsic triggers of skin sensitivity between individuals with self-reported sensitive skin and non-sensitive skin.MethodsA systematic literature review was undertaken to identify intrinsic and extrinsic factors associated with sensitive skin. A 167-item survey was developed on the basis of the literature review. The survey was completed online by a sample of adult participants drawn from the general United Kingdom population. Participants also completed sociodemographic and self-reported health questions.ResultsA total of 3050 surveys were completed: 1526 participants with self-reported skin sensitivity and 1524 participants not reporting skin sensitivity. There was a decrease in self-reported skin sensitivity with increasing age (p<0.05), and proportionally more women reported sensitive skin. Smoking also led to a higher frequency of sensitive skin. All signs and symptoms of sensitive skin, such as itch, dryness/flakiness, roughness and flushing/blushing were more commonly reported by those with self-reported sensitive skin. These were frequently reported in association with external factors (cold/windy weather, clothes and fabrics), as well as internal factors such as pre-existing skin conditions and atopy.ConclusionThe study evaluated self-reported sensitive skin against a non-sensitive skin in order to identify common inherent and external triggers to distinguish between these groups in a large general population study in the United Kingdom. The key symptoms and signs of this syndrome identified in the literature were confirmed to be reported significantly more when compared with those without sensitive skin. However, no correlation or pattern of symptomology could be identified, reinforcing the complexity of this condition. Given the strong differentiation from the non-sensitive group, the results of this research could be utilised for the development of a clinically meaningful screening tool.

Analysis of the Bacterial Flora of Sensitive Facial Skin Among Women in Guangzhou.

BackgroundSensitive skin (SS) is easily irritated by various environmental stimuli, and epidemiological surveys surprisingly find that self-perceived SS is widespread worldwide.ObjectiveTo investigate whether SS is linked to changes in the skin bacterial population using 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis.Patients and MethodsAccording to both the Huaxi SS Questionnaire and Lactic Acid Stimulation Test, 60 female volunteers in Guangzhou were classified into normal skin (NS) and SS groups. Skin barrier parameters were assessed by the CK skin tester. The DNA of the bacterial flora on the facial skin surface was extracted and was subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing.ResultsThe skin hydration was significantly lower in the SS group compared to the NS group (P =0.032). Based on 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis, the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) significantly decreased in the SS group (P =0.0235, SS vs NS). The relative abundance of Neisseriaceae in SS group decreased significantly (P <0.05, SS vs NS), while that of Neisseria (within the Neisseriaceae family) increased significantly (P <0.05, SS vs NS).ConclusionSS is accompanied by a decrease in species diversity and richness, which may be relevant to the weakening of the microbial barrier (due to the increase of Neisseria or the decrease of Neisseriaceae). Thus, corresponding treatment for Neisseriaceae may be a new idea in the treatment of SS.

Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerance of a facial treatment on subjects with self-perceived sensitive skin

Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerance of a facial treatment on subjects with self-perceived sensitive skin

Effectiveness of nature-based sensitive skin products in a self-perceived sensitive skin population

Effectiveness of nature-based sensitive skin products in a self-perceived sensitive skin population

A new discussion of the cutaneous vascular reactivity in sensitive skin: A sub-group of SS?

Sensitive skin (SS) seems not to be a one-dimensional condition and many scholars concentrate on skin barrier disruption or sensorineural change, but few focus on its increased vascular reactivity. This study explored the possibility of using the different selection methods and measurement methods to verify a high vascular reactivity in SS without an impaired cutaneous barrier function. Sixty "self-perceived sensitive skin" volunteers were enlisted and each one completed three kinds of screening tests: assess cutaneous sensory using questionnaire survey and Lactic Acid Sting Test (LAST); assess barrier function using Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) skin irritation test and assess cutaneous vascular reactivity using 98% DMSO test and non-invasive measurement. Volunteers were divided into different groups based on response to SLS. The DMSO clinical score and the biophysical parameters obtained by non-invasive measurement were subsequently analysed. (1) The positive correlations could be seen between sum LAST score and sum DMSO score regardless of the observation time; (2) The biological parameters (CBF、a*values and L* values) are all keeping with DMSO score; (3) If the participants were divided into SLS reactors and non-reactors, a composition ratio of DMSO score was significant difference in these two groups and in SLS non-reactors, there were still seven participants showed high reaction to DMSO. There is a sub-group of SS for characteristics of a high vascular reactivity without an impaired cutaneous barrier function. The DMSO test and novel non-invasive measurements which are conducive to assess cutaneous vascular reactivity, combined with SLS skin irritation test could help us to screen this kind of SS.

The effects of benzylsulfonyl-D-Ser-homoPhe-(4-amidino-benzylamide), a dual plasmin and urokinase inhibitor, on facial skin barrier function in subjects with sensitive skin.

The aim of this study was to optimize the synthesis of the plasmin and urokinase (uPA) inhibitor benzylsulfonyl-D-Ser-homoPhe-(4-amidino-benzylamide) (BSFAB), to characterize its activity and mechanism of action and to assess its use to improve stratum corneum (SC) barrier function. Peptide coupling methods were used to synthesize BSFAB, and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) together with 1 H- and 13 C-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) were applied to clarify its structure and determine its purity. Its binding mode was determined by docking studies to the catalytic domains of plasmin and uPA. Inhibition constants (Ki ) were determined by enzyme kinetic studies, and the effect of BSFAB on plasmin, uPA and transglutaminase 1 expression was evaluated in non-cytokine and cytokine-stimulated keratinocytes. A vehicle-controlled clinical study on SC barrier function was conducted on facial skin of subjects with self-perceived sensitive skin. BSFAB was synthesized with high purity (97.3%). In silico studies indicated that the amidine moiety of BSFAB was anchored in the S1 pocket of both enzymes by binding to Asp189, Ser190 and Gly219, whereas the backbone of the D-Ser residue makes an anti-parallel β-sheet interaction with Gly216. BSFAB was shown to be an effective inhibitor of plasmin and uPA with Ki values of 29 and 25 nM, respectively. BSFAB also inhibited keratinocyte-secreted protease activities in basal (plasmin inhibition 37.7%, P < 0.05 and uPA inhibition 96.6%, P < 0.01) and cytokine-induced conditions (plasmin inhibition 41.1%, P < 0.05 and uPA inhibition 97.0%, P < 0.001) and stimulated the gene expression of transglutaminase 1 in cytokine-stimulated keratinocytes (approximately 4.5 times increased expression, P < 0.01). Clinically, BSFAB was shown to improve SC barrier integrity (P < 0.02 on day 29) and subjective improvements in the perception of healthy skin (P < 0.05 on day 28). BSFAB binds as a reversible competitive inhibitor to the active sites of plasmin and uPA. Additionally, BSFAB positively improved keratinocyte differentiation gene expression (transglutaminase 1). These effects were translated into improvements in SC barrier integrity clinically in subjects with dry and sensitive skin and improved their perception of having a healthy skin condition.

Neural basis of sensitive skin: an fMRI study

About 50% of women declare themselves to have sensitive skin. However, sensitive skin still appears to be a questionable problem not corresponding to a specific physiological pattern. To objectivate the neural basis of sensitive skin, we measured cerebral response to cutaneous provocative tests in self-perceived sensitive and non-sensitive skin subjects using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Subjects were divided into two groups according to their self-perceived characterization by using a dedicated questionnaire about their skin reactivity. Event-related fMRI was used to measure cerebral activation associated with skin discomfort induced by a simultaneous split-face application of lactic acid and of its vehicle. In both groups, skin discomfort due to lactic acid increased activity in the primary sensorimotor cortex contralateral to application site and in a bilateral fronto-parietal network including parietal cortex, prefrontal areas around the superior frontal sulcus, and the supplementary motor area. However, activity was significantly larger in the sensitive skin group. Most remarkably, in the sensitive skin group only, activity spreaded into the ipsilateral primary sensorimotor cortex and the bilateral peri-insular secondary somatosensory area. Our results demonstrate that, compared with control subjects, self-perceived sensitive skin subjects have a specific cerebral activation during skin irritative test, which allows us to hypothesize that self-perceived sensitive skin is intrinsically linked to a specific neurophysiologic pattern for these subjects. This study demonstrates that fMRI is an effective objective method for measuring cerebral processes underlying skin reactivity and contributes to a better understanding of the neural basis of the sensitive skin phenomenon.

Cleansing, moisturizing, and sun-protection regimens for normal skin, self-perceived sensitive skin, and dermatologist-assessed sensitive skin.

Acquiring or maintaining healthy skin requires a multifunctional approach: mild cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. The clinical benefits of a daily, healthy facial skin-care regimen comprising a mild cleanser and moisturizer were evaluated on normal skin, self-perceived sensitive skin, and dermatologist-assessed sensitive skin for a period of up to 4 weeks. Subjects with normal, healthy skin were photographed with a calibrated, high-resolution digital camera, and the average improvement in overall health was calculated using image morphing and facial averaging techniques, following a 2-week period of product application. In a second study that included subjects with self-assessed sensitive facial skin, changes in skin hydration, skin dryness, and skin sensitivity (determined by means of a lactic acid sting test and subject self-assessment) were monitored during a 3-week regimen of mild cleansing and moisturizing with products designed for sensitive skin. The third study involved dermatologist-assessed highly sensitive skin patients (mostly rosacea with an atopic background in some cases). These patients underwent a 4-week skin-care regimen involving mild cleansing and moisturizing. In all three studies, significant improvements in skin health/quality were observed by means of expert assessments, instrumental evaluations, and subjective self-assessment.

Ethnic variations in self-perceived sensitive skin: epidemiological survey.

To examine possible ethnic variations in perception of sensitive skin, an epidemiological survey was performed in the San Francisco area. Approximately 800 telephone interviews were conducted with women from four different ethnic groups (Afro-Americans, Asians, Euro-Americans, Hispanics; approximately 200 women per group). In addition to sensitive facial skin assessments, age and other general skin condition data were collected. 52% of the subjects identified themselves as having sensitive facial skin. There was no statistical difference between the ethnic groups in terms of sensitive skin prevalence. Nevertheless, some differences were noted between ethnic subgroups of sensitive skin. Euro-Americans were characterized by a higher skin reactivity to wind and tended to be less reactive to cosmetics. Afro-Americans presented diminished skin reactivity to most environmental factors and a lower frequency of recurring facial redness. Asians appeared to have greater skin reactivity to spicy food, to sudden changes in temperature and to wind, and tended to suffer from itching more frequently. Hispanics presented a lower incidence of skin reactivity to alcohol. The differences in skin sensitivity between ethnic groups concerned mostly factors of skin reactivity and, to a lesser extent, its symptomatology. But, taken together, we note the similarities in comparing how women of varying ethnic backgrounds perceive the sensitive skin condition.

Sensitive skin: an epidemiological study.

There is a growing awareness that some individuals exhibit heightened skin sensitivity, particularly on the face, and have a high incidence of adverse reactions to cosmetics and toiletries. To carry out an epidemiological study to assess the prevalence of sensitive skin and cosmetic-related adverse events in a U.K. population, and to examine possible factors that may be associated with sensitive skin. Self-assessment questionnaires were sent out to 3300 women and 500 men, randomly selected, who were over the age of 18 years and lived within a 10-mile radius of High Wycombe (Bucks.). Fifty non-responder women were also questioned by telephone to ensure that the postal responders were representative of the population as a whole. The response rates were 62% for women and 52% for men, with the incidence of self-reported skin sensitivity being 51.4% and 38.2%, respectively. Ten per cent of women and 5.8% of men described themselves as having very sensitive skin. Fifty-seven per cent of women and 31.4% of men had experienced an adverse reaction to a personal product at some stage in their lives, with 23% of women and 13.8% of men having had a problem in the last 12 months. Among the women, symptoms of cosmetic-induced subjective sensory skin discomfort (burning, stinging, itching etc.) occurred more commonly in the sensitive skin cohort (53%) than in those who regarded themselves as non-sensitive (17%). An atopic diathesis in women did not appear to be a predictive factor for sensitive skin, the incidence of self-perceived sensitive skin being equivalent for atopics (49%) and non-atopics (51%). Furthermore, some 34% of atopic women described themselves as being non-sensitive. Nevertheless, the incidence of atopy was higher among the women in the sensitive skin group (49%) than among those in the non-sensitive group (27%). Dry skin and a predilection for blushing/flushing were associated factors for sensitive skin. Our survey indicates that sensitive facial skin is a common problem for women and men in the U.K. and points to the need for the development of personal products designed for this skin phenotype.