Skin Barrier Research Articles

Clinical efficacy of a multilamellar cream on skin physiology and microbiome in an epidermal stress model: A controlled double-blinded study.

Stratum corneum (SC) is essential for skin barrier function, mitigating water loss and shielding against potentially harmful substances and allergens. The SC's lipid matrix, arranged in a lamellar structure, is integral to its protective role. Our study explores the restoration effects of a multilamellar cream with an acidic pH compared to a basic placebo cream on skin physiology and its interaction with the skin microbiome after stress induction via tape stripping (TS). In this double-blind study, 14 healthy participants aged 21-58 years were assessed pre- and post-tape stripping, followed by a 14 days application of a multilamellar test cream and a placebo cream with evaluations on days 7, 14 and 17 for sustained effects. Skin physiology was analysed in terms of epidermal barrier function, SC hydration and surface pH. The microbiome was analysed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing the 16S rRNA gene using Illumina MiSeq, with subsequent species identification. Our study showed significant improvements in skin barrier repair and SC hydration with verum, particularly after 14 days of application, while both creams initially enhanced stratum corneum hydration. No significant changes in surface-pH were detected. The skin microbiome analysis revealed that TS slightly decreased alpha diversity, a trend that verum significantly reversed, enhancing diversity beyond baseline levels after 14 days. Overall, while both creams contributed to a broader microbial phyla diversity over time, no significant changes in the abundance of specific genera or species were noted between treatments. Our study delineates the efficacy of a pH-optimized multilamellar cream in enhancing epidermal barrier recovery and SC hydration post-sequential TS, in contrast to an unstructured basic placebo. Verum cream significantly improved skin barrier function and SC hydration at day 14, with sustained effects evident beyond the treatment period. Furthermore, the multilamellar formulation facilitated the restitution of cutaneous microbiome diversity, a key indicator of healthy skin ecology, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between barrier integrity and microbial composition. These findings underscore the importance of multilamellar emollient structures in dermatological therapeutics, with potential implications for the design of advanced skincare interventions that holistically support cutaneous resilience and homeostasis.

The importance of stratum corneum ω-linoleoyloxyacylceramides in human skin barrier health: their biochemistry, processing enzymes and metabolites involved in corneocyte lipid envelope maturation.

Over the past 50 years there have been great strides made in the discovery of the composition and relevance of the total stratum corneum (SC) ceramide matrix. However, the focus of this review is on the free intercellular class of ω-linoleoyloxyacylceramides, corneocyte-bound ceramides and associated lipids known as the corneocyte lipid envelope (CLE) together with their processing enzymes involved in aiding ceramide attachment the corneocyte protein envelope (CPE). Two structural models and partially shared biosynthetic pathways have been proposed for the attachment of CPE-bound O-ceramides (ω-hydroxyceramides attached to glutamate residues of proteins in the (CPE) using the 12R-lipoxygenase (12R-LOX)/epidermal lipoxygenase-3 (eLOX3)/epoxide hydrolase-3 (EPHX3)/unknown esterase/ transglutaminase-1 (TG1) attachment pathway) and CPE-bound EO-ceramides (epoxy-enone ceramides attached to cysteine residues of proteins in the CPE using the 12R-LOX/eLOX3/short chain dehydrogenase/reductase family 9C member 7 (SDR9C7)/non-enzymatic attachment pathway), i.e. there is a bifurcation step beyond epidermal eLOX3. Their formation and structures will be discussed as well as their relevance in compromised skin barrier conditions together with our own work on SC maturation examined by proteomics, lipidomics, enzyme immunolocalization studies, mechanical fragility assays and Nile red staining of corneocyte envelopes (CE). Reduced levels of 12R-LOX, eLOX3, SDR9C7 and TG1 were observed in photodamaged skin of the cheeks that were associated with reduced SC maturation as evidenced by Nile red staining and increased CE fragility. In the severely photodamaged cheeks of Albino African SC we also observed increased levels of acylceramides. Concomitantly by reducing the activity of 12R-LOX by antibody inhibition and TG1 inhibition with a known chemical inhibitor, we demonstrated in a humidity-based exvivo SC maturation model that these enzymes contributed to increased CE hydrophobicity and mechanical integrity. We hypothesize that at least the CPE-bound O-ceramide pathway is operational in the SC. Nevertheless, our understanding of the full complexity of ω-linoleoyloxyacylceramides and the composition of the CLE is limited particularly on cosmetically relevant body sites such as the face.

Challenges in Adult Acne and the Role of Skin Care in Managing the Condition.

Acne vulgaris is a complex, multifactorial, inflammatory skin condition. Although frequently presented at dermatology clinics, the literature on adult acne is scarce, particularly concerning skin barrier function and management. We aimed to provide insights into the role of skin barrier integrity in adult acne patients and the role of cleansers and moisturizers as adjunctive to treating and maintaining adult acne.   Methods: A panel of eight dermatologists who treat adult patients with acne developed a consensus paper on the role of skin barrier function and skin care in adult acne management. The modified Delphi method comprised a face-to-face meeting and online follow-up to discuss the results of a scoping literature review. Drawing from their experience and opinions, they agreed on seven consensus statements.   Results: Epidermal barrier dysfunction plays a vital role in acne pathogenesis and asymmetrically impacts adult female acne. Erythema, pruritus, peeling, and xerosis are common adverse effects of first-line acne treatment options and, if not appropriately counseled and managed, can exacerbate, leading to regimen nonadherence and poor patient experience and outcomes. Improving patient knowledge of comprehensive acne treatments, including quality adjunctive cleansers and moisturizers, may maximize regimen efficacy and provide patients with personalized and successful acne treatment and maintenance tools. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(8):674-679.     doi:10.36849/JDD.8471.

Effect of Th2 cytokines on ceramide subclasses based on a model of reconstructed human epidermis.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with chronic inflammation and an altered skin barrier. Lipids of the stratum corneum of AD patients are known to differ substantially in composition from those of healthy subjects. A reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) model has been developed in vitro in order to mimic the characteristics of AD. In this study, using this model, we compared lipid profile modifications between control RHE and RHE treated with Th2 cytokines in order to mimic AD. We focused particularly on the lipid profile of the ceramide subclasses: non-hydroxy sphingosine (NS) and esterified ω-hydroxy sphingosine (EOS), which have been reported to be clearly modified in atopic skin. RHE lipids were extracted and analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. The following lipid profile changes were observed in Th2-cytokine-treated RHE: (i) an increase in ceramide NS composed of an unsaturated fatty acid chain; (ii) an increase in saturated ceramide NS with small total carbon content (≤40 carbon atoms), whereas NS with a higher total carbon content (≥42 carbon atoms) was decreased; and (iii) a decrease in ceramide EOS. These results are in accordance with reported lipid profiles of human atopic skin in vivo. Moreover, the in vitro model represents a useful tool to better understand the pathogenesis of AD which may be used for future screening of new effective treatments.

Type 2 Cytokine–Dependent Skin Barrier Regulation in Personalized 2-Dimensional and 3-Dimensional Skin Models of Atopic Dermatitis: A Pilot Study

Keratinocytes from healthy donors stimulated with type 2 cytokines are often used to experimentally study atopic dermatitis (AD) inflammatory responses. Due to potential intrinsic alterations, it seems favorable to use keratinocytes from AD patients. Keratinocytes isolated from hair follicles offer a non-invasive approach to investigate AD-derived keratinocytes. To evaluate whether such AD-derived keratinocytes are suitable to mimic AD inflammatory responses we compared hair follicle-derived keratinocytes from healthy donors and AD patients in a type 2 cytokine environment. Stimulation of AD-derived keratinocytes with IL-4 and IL-13 induced higher expression changes of AD-associated markers as compared to healthy keratinocytes. The combination of IL-4 and IL-13 generally induced highest expression changes, but IL-13 alone also induced significant changes of AD-specific markers. Similar to the 2D cultures, IL-4/IL-13 stimulation of 3D skin models generated with AD-derived keratinocytes modulated the expression of several AD-relevant factors. Whole transcriptome analysis revealed that IL-4 and IL-13 acted similarly on these 3D skin models. Histologically, IL-13 alone and in combination with IL-4 increased epidermal spongiosis, a histological hallmark of AD skin. Taken together, our pilot study suggests that hair follicle-derived keratinocytes from AD patients represent a useful model system to study AD-related inflammation in a personalized in vitro model.

Multi-state evaluation of Candida infections in burn patients.

Burn patients are at high risk of developing secondary invasive fungal infections due to their compromised skin barrier, extensive use of antibiotics, and immunosuppression. We investigated demographic characteristics and clinical factors associated with Candida infections in intensive care unit (ICU) burn patients, and the invitro antifungal susceptibility of species of isolates. A total of 353 burn patients admitted to three major ICUs of burn centers in Iran were evaluated between 2021 and 2023. Patients were considered as colonisation and candidemia. Demographic characteristics, burn-related factors, and clinical conditions were compared among the groups. Furthermore, we identified fungi at the species level and performed antifungal susceptibility testing according to CLSI guidelines. Overall, 46.2% of patients were colonised with a Candida species, leading to candidemia in 15.3%. The most frequently isolated species from candidemia and burn wound colonisation were Candida parapsilosis (37.0%) and Candida albicans (31.9%), respectively. Risk factors linked to candidemia included larger total body surface area (TBSA) (>50%), older patients, indwelling catheters, diabetes, and an extended ICU stay. Mortality rate was higher among candidemia patients (82.5%) compared to colonised patients (7.3%). The resistance rate of the strains isolated from candidemia to fluconazole and voriconazole was 28% and 18.2%, respectively. We found that a higher percentage of TBSA burn injuries, longer hospital stays, and catheterization are important predictors of candidemia. The mortality rate was significantly higher in people infected with non-albicans Candida species. Prevention and treatment strategies for candidemia should be based on updated, regional epidemiological data.

Molybdenum Nanoparticles Alleviate MC903-Induced Atopic Dermatitis-Like Symptoms in Mice by Modulating the ROS-Mediated NF-κB and Nrf2 /HO-1 Signaling Pathways.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can affect individuals of all ages. Recent research has shown that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of AD. Therefore, inhibiting oxidative stress may be an effective therapeutic approach for AD. Nano-molybdenum is a promising material for use as an antioxidant. We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects and preliminary mechanisms of molybdenum nanoparticles (Mo NPs) by using a murine model of chemically induced AD-like disease. HaCaT cells, a spontaneously immortalized human keratinocyte cell line, were stimulated by tumor necrosis factor-alpha /interferon-gamma after pre-treatment with Mo NPs. Reactive oxygen species levels, production of inflammatory factors, and activation of the nuclear factor kappa-B and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor pathways were then evaluated. Mo NPs was topically applied to treat a murine model of AD-like disease induced by MC903, a vitamin D3 analog. Dermatitis scores, pruritus scores, transepidermal water loss and body weight were evaluated. AD-related inflammatory factors and chemokines were evaluated. Activation of the nuclear factor kappa-B and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor / heme oxygenase-1 pathways was assessed. Our data showed that the topical application of Mo NPs dispersion could significantly alleviate AD skin lesions and itching and promote skin barrier repair. Further mechanistic experiments revealed that Mo NPs could inhibit the excessive activation of the nuclear factor kappa-B pathway, promote the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor and heme oxygenase-1 proteins, and suppress oxidative stress reactions. Additionally, they inhibited the expression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin, inflammatory factors, and chemokines, thereby alleviating skin inflammation. Mo NPs present a promising alternative treatment option for patients with AD as they could address three pivotal mechanisms in the pathogenesis of AD concurrently.

Protein degradation in the stratum corneum.

The stratum corneum (SC), the outermost epidermal layer, plays a pivotal role in skin barrier function. This review delves into the intricate process of protein degradation within the stratum corneum, elucidating the roles of specific enzymes, regulatory mechanisms and the consequent impact on various skin conditions. Protein degradation is a finely tuned process, orchestrated by a suite of proteolytic enzymes like kallikreins. These enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of corneodesmosomes and the orderly desquamation of corneocytes, a process essential for skin homeostasis. Another critical enzymatic process is the breakdown of proteins like filaggrin and the generation of amino acids and their derivatives, required in the physiological water-handling properties of the SC. Regulation of these proteolytic activities is complex, involving a balance between endogenous inhibitors and other factors like pH, hydration and environmental stressors. Dysregulation of protease activity is linked to a spectrum of skin conditions, ranging from xerosis to inflammatory diseases like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Aberrant protein degradation can lead to compromised skin barrier function, increased tissue water loss and heightened susceptibility to infections and allergens. Understanding the factors affecting protein degradation can inform the development of targeted skincare products. Advances in biochemistry and dermatology have paved the way for the search for active ingredients designed to modulate protease activity. Such innovations may offer promising therapeutic avenues for enhancing skin barrier function and treating skin disorders. This review underscores the significance of enzymatic protein degradation in the SC and its regulatory mechanisms. It provides insights into the pathophysiology of skin diseases and outlines the potential for novel skincare interventions. By bridging the gap between fundamental research and practical applications, this article aims to inspire further investigation for better understanding of skin physiology and innovation in the realm of skincare product development.

Synergistic Strategies of Biomolecular Transport Technologies in Transdermal Healthcare Systems.

Transdermal healthcare systems have gained significant attention for their painless and convenient drug administration, as well as their ability to detect biomarkers promptly. However, the skin barrier limits the candidates of biomolecules that can be transported, and reliance on simple diffusion poses a bottleneck for personalized diagnosis and treatment. Consequently, recent advancements in transdermal transport technologies have evolved toward active methods based on external energy sources. Multiple combinations of these technologies have also shown promise for increasing therapeutic effectiveness and diagnostic accuracy as delivery efficiency is maximized. Furthermore, wearable healthcare platforms are being developed in diverse aspects for patient convenience, safety, and on-demand treatment. Herein, a comprehensive overview of active transdermal delivery technologies is provided, highlighting the combination-based diagnostics, therapeutics, and theragnostics, along with the latest trends in platform advancements. This offers insights into the potential applications of next-generation wearable transdermal medical devices for personalized autonomous healthcare.

Investigation of keratolytic impact of synthetic bolalipids on skin penetration of a model hydrophilic permeant

Synthetic single-chain bolalipids (SSCBs) are novel excipients in drug delivery, with potential as stabilizers or solubilizers. However, their impact on skin barrier function has not been comprehensively studied. Therefore, two SSCBs (PC-C24-PC and PC-C32-PC) were studied in aqueous systems for their impact on penetration of a model permeant into porcine skin. Concentrations of 0.05 – 5 % w/w were tested; PC-C24-PC formulations were low-viscosity liquids while PC-C32-PC formed viscous dispersions to gels at room temperature. Formulations were compared for their ability to enhance sodium fluorescein penetration (SF, 0.1 % w/w) into skin via tape stripping. Using NIR-densitometry, the effect of SSCB formulations on corneocyte cohesion was evaluated. Data were compared with phospholipid mixture Lipoid S-75, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and polyethylene glycol 12-hydroxystearate (PEG-HS), and distilled water as negative control. Contrary to the hypothesis, both SSCBs failed to increase SF penetration into the stratum corneum, but rather showed a significant decrease in penetration depth compared to water. Both SSCBs exhibited a keratolytic effect at 5 % w/w, leading to substantial removal of proteins from the skin surface. Consequently, SSCBs may not enhance penetration of hydrophilic drugs into skin, but could be used as keratolytic agents.

Trajectories of egg sensitization in childhood: Two birth cohorts in Asia and Europe.

Hen's egg exposure through impaired skin barrier is considered a major mechanism of sensitization to eggs. However, the impact of filaggrin (FLG) gene loss-of-function mutations on the natural history of egg sensitization lacks consensus among studies. To evaluate the association between the natural course of egg sensitization and FLG mutations. We used Japanese and the UK birth cohorts (CHIBA and MAAS) to identify the longitudinal patterns of egg sensitization until mid-school age and examined the relationship between the identified patterns and FLG mutations. Sensitization was assessed using egg white-specific IgE levels or skin prick tests (SPTs). Egg allergy was confirmed by parental reports and sensitization. Latent class growth analysis identified longitudinal patterns. Three similar patterns of egg sensitization (persistent, early-onset remitting, and no/low grade classes) were identified in both cohorts, with differing prevalence estimates. The proportion of children with egg allergy in the persistent class at 7 or 8 years of age was 23% (CHIBA) and 20% (MAAS). Consistently in both cohorts, FLG mutations were significantly associated only with the persistent class. Children with FLG mutations had an approximately four-fold increased risk of being in the persistent sensitization class (RRRs: 4.3, 95%C.I. (1.2-16.0), p = .03 in CHIBA; 4.3 (1.3-14.7), p = .02 in MAAS). FLG loss-of-function mutations are associated with persistent egg sensitization in both Japanese and European ethnicities, and the mutations might be a potential biomarker for identifying the risk of persistent egg sensitization/allergy in early infancy. Future studies should incorporate oral food challenges to confirm this relationship.

Redox homeostasis and pH monitoring: a step forward to personalized medicine and dermatology

Skin is continually subjected to various environmental stressors, such as pollution, UV rays, and other oxidative damage factors. It is obligatory to ascertain the exact importance of redox status and ROS indicators, which may be assessed in diverse physiological fluids and tissues. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause lipid peroxidation, which can compromise the integrity and functionality of skin cells by degrading membrane lipids. This may compromise the skin barrier, making the skin more prone to infections and environmental irritants, increasing water loss and dryness. Collagen in the dermis can covalently link to malondialdehyde (MDA), a byproduct of lipid peroxidation generated by oxidatively damaged skin lipids, to form MDA-collagen adducts. Several types of skin cancer are associated with a heightened vulnerability of DNA purine and pyrimidine bases to oxidative damage and altered DNA repair capacity (DRC). Damage from ROS may cause hyaluronate to become less viscous, which increases its susceptibility to degradation. Elastin hydrodynamic radius decreased the rate of self-assembly in response to ROS. Alterations in redox homeostasis can lead to various diseases and conditions, including vitiligo, actinic keratosis, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, systemic sclerosis, the onset of wrinkles, and skin aging. The most recent formulations' capacity to improve pH and Redox simultaneously can be attained by carefully selecting proposed antioxidant formulations. The combination of modern preparations is currently available and should be used in accordance with the suggested guidelines.

A cellular disease model toward gene therapy of TGM1-dependent lamellar ichthyosis

Lamellar Ichthyosis (LI) is a chronic disease, mostly caused by mutations in TGM1 gene, marked by impaired skin barrier formation. No definitive therapies are available and current treatments aim at symptomatic relief. LI mouse models often fail to faithfully replicate the clinical and histopathological features of human skin conditions. To develop advanced therapeutic approaches, as combined ex vivo cell and gene therapy, we established a human cellular model of LI by efficient CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene ablation of the TGM1 gene in human primary clonogenic keratinocytes. Gene edited cells showed complete absence of Transglutaminase-1 (TG1) expression and recapitulated a hyperkeratotic phenotype with most of the molecular hallmarks of LI in vitro. Using a SINγ-RV vector expressing transgenic TGM1 under the control of its own promoter, we tested an ex vivo gene therapy approach and validate the model of LI as a platform for pre-clinical evaluation studies. Gene-corrected TGM1-null keratinocytes displayed proper TG1 expression, enzymatic activity and cornified envelopes formation, hence restored proper epidermal architecture. Single cell multiomic analysis demonstrated proviral integrations in holoclone-forming epidermal stem cells, which are crucial to epidermal regeneration. This study serves as a proof-of-concept for assessing the potential of this therapeutic approach in treating TGM1 dependent LI.

Construction of a mouse model for sensitive skin research.

Current animal models of sensitive skin do not adequately reflect the objective symptoms or physiological manifestations observed in human sensitive skin. To construct and validate a sensitive skin model in mice. Tape stripping (TS) was used to induce partial mechanical disruption of the lipid film and stratum corneum. Subsequently, propylene glycol (PG) was applied to disrupt the lipid structure in the skin barrier, and capsaicin (CS) activate transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptors of keratinocytes to simulate the formation of sensitive skin. Evident itching and tingling sensations, scaly skin, vasodilation, local congestion, increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), elevated TRPV1 expression, and inflammatory symptoms were subsequently evaluated. TS combined with PG and CS application resulted in skin flakes; skin barrier disruption; vascular dilation; increased itching, stinging, and inflammation; TRPV1 upregulation in the epidermis; and a significant increase in lactic acid-induced itching and stinging. Using a combination of TS and PG, and CS application, a mouse model of sensitive skin was successfully established involving various skin phenotypes and physiological manifestations, including skin flakes, vasodilation, increased blood flow and TEWL, itching and stinging sensations, inflammation, and elevated TRPV1 expression.

Biomarkers in Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Systematic Review.

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a rare intraepidermal blistering disease that is potentially life-threatening due to risk of infection and failure of skin barrier function. The identification of biomarkers has the potential to provide diagnostic utility and identify new therapeutic targets. The objective of this systematic review is to identify all potentially relevant PV biomarkers, categorize them, and identify trends to determine the involvement of T-cell-mediated, B-cell-1mediated, and innate immune-mediated pathways in PV pathogenesis. Medline and Embase databases were searched according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, resulting in the inclusion of 66 studies that reported on a total of 2463 patients and 146 unique biomarkers. Biomarkers were categorized into T-cell-mediated, B-cell-mediated, and innate immune system pathways. The most notable biomarkers trends include elevations in IL-4, IL-6, IL-17A, anti-Dsg1/3 autoantibodies, and a reduction in Treg cells and FOXP3. The results of this review support current theories of PV pathogenesis, with increased Th2 activity, increased Th17 activity, decreased Treg activity, and production of anti-Dsg1/3 autoantibodies being observed. Targeting of IL-4 and IL-6 may provide therapeutic benefit. However, more research is required to validate biomarkers for clinical utility and assess viability as therapeutic targets.

Correlations between Skin Condition Parameters and Ceramide Profiles in the Stratum Corneum of Healthy Individuals.

Ceramides are essential lipids for skin barrier function, and various classes and species exist in the human stratum corneum (SC). To date, the relationship between skin conditions and ceramide composition in healthy individuals has remained largely unclear. In the present study, we measured six skin condition parameters (capacitance, transepidermal water loss, scaliness, roughness, multilayer exfoliation, and corneocyte cell size) for the SC of the cheeks and upper arms of 26 healthy individuals and performed correlation analyses with their SC ceramide profiles, which we measured via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In the cheeks, high levels and/or ratios of two free ceramide classes containing an extra hydroxyl group in the long-chain moiety and a protein-bound ceramide class containing 6-hydroxysphingosine correlated with healthy skin conditions. In contrast, the ratios of two other free ceramide classes, both containing sphingosine, and a protein-bound ceramide class containing 4,14-sphingadiene correlated with unhealthy skin conditions, as did shortening of the carbon chain of the fatty acid portion of two ceramide classes containing non-hydroxy fatty acids. Thus, our findings help to elucidate the relationship between skin conditions and ceramide composition.

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.

Therapeutic Effect of Liquiritin Carbomer Gel on Topical Glucocorticoid-Induced Skin Inflammation in Mice.

Glucocorticoids are often used and highly effective anti-inflammatory medications, but prolonged topical application may alter the epidermis' normal structure and function, potentially resulting in a number of adverse effects. Topical glucocorticoid-induced skin inflammation is a dangerous condition that develops after topical glucocorticoid use. The patients become dependent on the medication and, even after the medication is stopped, the dermatitis symptoms recur, severely impairing their quality of life. Thus, the need to aggressively confront Topical glucocorticoid-induced skin inflammation is critical. Prior research has demonstrated that topical administration of licorice's flavonoid component liquiritin stimulates epidermal proliferation, which in turn enhances the creation of collagen and the healing of wounds. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to determine if topical use of liquiritin carbomer gel can treat glucocorticoid-induced changes in mice skin epidermal function, and the mechanisms involved. The findings demonstrated that, in the mice model of topical glucocorticoid-induced skin inflammation, liquiritin carbomer gel aided in the restoration of skin barrier function. These outcomes may have been caused by enhanced expression of the proteins Aquaporin 3, Keratin 10, and Claudin-1, as well as the restoration of epidermal hyaluronan content. In the meantime, liquiritin carbomer gel dramatically decreased the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, and IgE in mice, according to ELISA tests. Furthermore, topical treatment of liquiritin carbomer gel boosted the expression of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and decreased malondialdehyde expression, potentially counteracting the detrimental effects of glucocorticoids on the epidermis. In summary, these findings imply that topical liquiritin carbomer gel can treat glucocorticoid-induced skin damage through various mechanisms of action.

Vitis vinifera L. Leaf Extract, a Microbiota Green Ally against Infectious and Inflammatory Skin and Scalp Diseases: An In-Depth Update.

The skin microbiota, with its millions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, plays a key role in balancing the health of the skin and scalp. Its continuous exposure to potentially harmful stressors can lead to abnormalities such as local dysbiosis, altered barrier function, pathobiont overabundance, and infections often sustained by multidrug-resistant bacteria. These factors contribute to skin impairment, deregulation of immune response, and chronic inflammation, with local and systemic consequences. In this scenario, according to the needs of the bio-circular-green economy model, novel harmless strategies, both for regulating the diverse epidermal infectious and inflammatory processes and for preserving or restoring the host skin eubiosis and barrier selectivity, are requested. Vitis vinifera L. leaves and their derived extracts are rich in plant secondary metabolites, such as polyphenols, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties that can be further exploited through microbe-driven fermentation processes. On this premise, this literature review aims to provide an informative summary of the most updated evidence on their interactions with skin commensals and pathogens and on their ability to manage inflammatory conditions and restore microbial biodiversity. The emerging research showcases the potential novel beneficial ingredients for addressing various skincare concerns and advancing the cosmeceutics field as well.

Reparative effects of Schizophyllum commune oat bran fermentation broth on UVB-induced skin inflammation via the JAK/STAT pathway

Human immortal keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) are induced with UVB to establish an injury model. This model is utilized to investigate whether oat bran fermentation broth (OBF) has a reparative effect on skin inflammation and damage to the skin barrier caused by UVB irradiation. The results show that compared with unfermented oat bran (OB), OBF exhibits higher structural homogeneity, increased molecular weight size, active substances content, and in vitro antioxidant activity. OBF has a scavenging effect on excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increases the intracellular levels of antioxidant enzymes. It was found that OBF has a stronger inhibitory effect on the release of inflammatory factors than OB. It increases the synthesis of AQP3 and FLG proteins while decreasing the secretion of KLK-7. OBF can inhibit the transcription level of inflammatory factors by suppressing the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Safety experiments demonstrate that OBF has a high safety profile.Graphical