Transepidermal Water Loss Research Articles (Page 1)

Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a common, chronic skin condition characterised by epidermal barrier dysfunction, immune dysregulation and cutaneous dysbiosis. While 'emollient plus' formulations are widely used in human atopic dermatitis (hAD), their role in cAD remains underexplored. To evaluate the clinical efficacy and owner-perceived value of a novel emollient plus formulation as a co-adjuvant treatment for cAD. Twenty-one client-owned dogs with controlled, nonseasonal cAD completed the study. A proof-of-concept, bench-to-bedside study was conducted over 30 days. Dogs received a once-daily application of a novel emollient plus formulation developed in-house. Clinical outcomes were assessed using pruritus Visual Analog Scale (pVAS)10 and Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI)-04 scores, alongside skin barrier function parameters (trans epidermal water loss [TEWL] and pH) at the pinnae and inguinal areas. Owners evaluated therapeutic efficacy via the Owner Global Assessment of Treatment Efficacy (OGATE) questionnaire and sensorial acceptability through a survey. Significant reductions were observed in pVAS10 (4.25 ± 1.85 to 3.38 ± 1.79; p = 0.016) and CADESI-04 (24.62 ± 18.48 to 13.43 ± 7.44; p = 0.02) scores. TEWL (18.63 ± 17.33 to 9.56 ± 10.75; p = 0.049) and pH (6.07 ± 0.97 to 5.41 ± 0.71; p = 0.01) only had significant reductions at the pinnae. Owner satisfaction was exceptionally high, with 90.47% rating treatment efficacy as 'good to excellent'. The sensorial properties of the formulation also received consistently positive ratings. This cAD-targeted emollient product demonstrated promising efficacy in reducing pruritus and skin lesions while possibly improving skin barrier function. Its favourable safety profile and high owner satisfaction suggest strong potential for routine clinical use in the management of cAD. Further controlled studies are warranted to confirm efficacy and optimised treatment protocols.

BackgroundCanine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that significantly impairs quality of life. Nutritional interventions have gained attention as supportive therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the clinical efficacy and safety of a functional diet containing Siraitia grosvenorii residual extract by evaluating its effects on clinical symptoms and inflammatory markers in dogs with CAD using a self-controlled design.MethodsA total of 32 dogs diagnosed with CAD were fed a standard diet for 12 weeks (control phase) followed by a functional diet for 12 weeks (treatment phase). Clinical assessments, including transepidermal water loss (TEWL), Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-04), Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS), Owner Global Assessment of Treatment Efficacy (OGATE), and serum IgE levels were conducted at baseline and at 6-week intervals.ResultsTEWL, CADESI-04, and PVAS scores significantly improved during the treatment phase compared with the control phase (p = 0.0002, < 0.0001, and < 0.0001, respectively). No significant difference was observed in serum in serum IgE levels (p = 0.8046). The OGATE responses indicated 80.65% rate of owner-reported satisfaction.ConclusionsThe functional diet significantly improved the clinical signs of CAD and was well tolerated. These findings suggest that nutritional support with the Siraitia grosvenorii extract may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for CAD.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-025-05055-6.

Contact dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disorder characterized by erythematous and pruritic lesions caused by irritant exposure. Ohwia caudata, a traditional medicinal plant, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but its dermatoprotective potential remains unclear. To investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of Ohwia caudata leaves’ hydroethanolic extract in a murine model of TPA-induced contact dermatitis. Major phytochemicals in Ohwia caudata extract were identified by HPLC–MS. SKH1/J hairless mice were topically treated with Ohwia caudata extract following TPA stimulation. Skin barrier function was assessed by transepidermal water loss and hydration. Inflammatory (IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β), antioxidant (SIRT1, Nrf2, HO-1), and ERK-related (p-ERK, eIF2α, ATF-4, CHOP) proteins were analyzed by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. HPLC–MS revealed harmine, swertisin, isoliquiritigenin, eupatilin, 3′,4′-dimethoxyflavone, and nerolidol as key constituents. The extract significantly reduced transepidermal water loss and enhanced hydration, indicating improved barrier integrity. It downregulated IL-6 and TNF-α while restoring TGF-β expression. ERK and downstream eIF2α/ATF-4/CHOP activation were suppressed, whereas SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant signaling was enhanced. Ohwia caudata leaves hydroethanolic extract protects against TPA-induced dermatitis by improving skin barrier function, suppressing inflammation, and activating antioxidant defense, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic for inflammatory skin diseases.

Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. is increasingly used in dermatology and cosmeceuticals for wound repair, barrier support, scar modulation, and photoaging. This review synthesizes evidence (2016–May 2025) across molecular mechanisms relevant to cutaneous aging, preclinical efficacy, human clinical outcomes, and delivery systems that improve dermal bioavailability. The principal triterpenoid saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside) and their aglycones (asiatic acid, madecassic acid), together with polyphenols, act across complementary pathways, including transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)/small mothers against decapentaplegic proteins (Smad)-driven extracellular matrix (ECM) anabolism; nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) attenuation; mitigation of oxidative/glycation stress; and photoprotection to improve histologic and biophysical skin endpoints. Human studies, though small and heterogeneous, report improvements in hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), elasticity, and wrinkle appearance, as well as benefits in scar parameters, with good topical tolerability. Advanced carriers such as transfersomes, liposomes, niosomes, phytosomes, nanoemulsions, hydrogels, microneedles, and nanofibers enhance skin penetration, stability, and residence of bioactive compounds from C. asiatica .

Background/objectives Soy isoflavones may benefit skin health in postmenopausal women, potentially via S-equol, a gut-derived metabolite with enhanced estrogenic and antioxidant activity. Methods Sixty-six postmenopausal women received either Novasoy®400 ( n = 33), a soy isoflavone extract, or identical placebo ( n = 33) for 12 weeks. Skin parameters, including crow’s feet and under-eye wrinkles, hydration, barrier function, and skin colour were assessed at baseline, D42 and D84. Urinary isoflavone metabolites, including S-equol, were measured at each time point. Results Crow’s feet wrinkle roughness decreased by 5.6% in the Novasoy®400 group versus a 1.6% increase in the placebo group, this difference was not statistically significant. However, urinary biomarker analysis identified 46.9% of women in the Novasoy®400 group and 15.6% in the placebo group as S-equol producers. In exploratory regression analysis limited to S-equol producers, higher urinary S-equol levels were significantly associated with improved under-eye wrinkle parameters and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) at D42. Multivariable model adjusting for age, soy intake, phototype and their interactions confirmed that older women experienced greater improvements in undereye wrinkles and barrier function in response to increased S-equol levels. Skin hydration showed a modest but statistically significant association with S-equol when combining data from both D42&amp;amp;84, indicating a potential cumulative effect. Conclusion Soy isoflavone supplementation increased urinary S-equol concentrations and was associated with improvements in under-eye wrinkle appearance, skin hydration, and barrier function—particularly among older postmenopausal women identified as S-equol producers. Findings suggest region-specific, time-sensitive effects dependent on S-equol levels. Clinical trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06047145 , NCT06047145.

Background: The lipid components of the skin barrier have the strongest structure when arranged in an orthorhombic packing. This structure can be influenced by the external supply of lipophilic ingredients. While the benefits of ceramide supplementation are well-documented, the effects of the cosmetic formulation’s oil-based ingredients have been less explored. Methods: The packing structures of commonly used oil and wax ingredients in cosmetics were analyzed using FT-IR. These components were then combined to formulate a cosmetic composition with an orthorhombic packing structure. The strength of the skin barrier was assessed by measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and the lipid packing of the porcine skin was analyzed using FT-IR. Results: In cosmetic oil ingredients, structurally simple oils such as mineral oil and squalane exhibited orthorhombic lipid packing, while more complex oils like isopropyl myristate (IPM) and isononyl isononanoate (ININ) showed hexagonal packing. Based on these structural characteristics, cosmetic formulations were designed by selectively combining oils, waxes, and emulsifiers to achieve a desired packing structure. Formulations incorporating orthorhombically packed oils successfully resulted in orthorhombic overall structures, whereas those including hexagonally packed oils tended to form hexagonal packing. The orthorhombic oils and formulation effectively maintained the structure and function of the porcine skin lipid barrier without disruption. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that orthorhombic oils and emulsions with orthorhombic packing effectively maintained skin barrier integrity, unlike hexagonal structures.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects up to 25% of children and impairs both skin barrier function and quality of life. This study examined the effectiveness of an emulgel containing hyaluronic acid, glycerol, grape seed oil, Calendula officinalis, aloe vera and sh-oligopeptide-1 (a synthetic Epidermal Growth Factor) for treating paediatric AD. In a randomised, self-controlled trial, 57 children (aged 2–14) applied the emulgel twice daily for 10 days to one forearm and left the other forearm as a control. Skin barrier parameters such as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), erythema and pH were measured. After applying the emulgel, lesional skin showed reduced erythema (p = 0.007), lower TEWL (p = 0.002) and higher SCH (p &lt; 0.001). Non-lesional skin showed improved SCH (p &lt; 0.001). SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) and Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores indicated milder disease post-treatment (mild cases: 64.9% to 80.7% SCORAD; 82.5% to 93.0%EASI). The Dermatology Life Quality Index improved by ~3.5 points, and patients reported high satisfaction with no adverse effects. This emulgel is an effective and well-tolerated adjunctive therapy for paediatric AD, enhancing barrier function and clinical outcomes.

Sleep plays a crucial role in regulating immune, endocrine, and skin functions. Increasing evidence suggests that sleep deprivation and circadian rhythm disruption can impact skin pigmentation by influencing melanocyte biology, hormonal balance, and inflammatory pathways. Clinical observations and molecular studies have revealed links between poor sleep and various pigmentary disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood, and the causal relationships are still under debate due to physiological confounders such as psychological stress and metabolic dysregulation. This review summarizes recent findings from experimental, clinical, and epidemiological studies on the relationship between sleep quality and skin pigmentation. Relevant literature was retrieved through PubMed and cross-referenced sources, focusing on research involving melanocyte activity, circadian genes (e.g., PER1 , BMAL1 ), hypothalamo-pituitary axis (HPA) activation, and pigmentation-related dermatological conditions. Both human and animal studies were included. Poor sleep has been shown to alter skin parameters including melanin, hemoglobin, hydration, and trans-epidermal water loss, often through keratinocyte barrier impairment and microbiome imbalance. Disruption of the HPA leads to elevated cortisol and proinflammatory cytokines, further affecting melanogenesis. Clinically, sleep disturbances are associated with pigmentary disorders such as melasma, rosacea, floppy eyelid syndrome, and acanthosis nigricans. Obstructive sleep apnea contributes to pigmentation changes via hypoxia-induced inflammation and vascular remodeling. A newly described disorder, maturational dyschromia, may also involve habitual sleep patterns. Future research integrating wearable technology and artificial intelligence-based skin imaging may enable real-time, individualized assessment of sleep-pigmentation interactions.

Objective To prepare low-temperature extracted Portulaca oleracea L. (P. oleracea) and investigate the application of masks containing this extract in photorejuvenation for sensitive skin. Methods Eligible participants were randomly divided into two groups. Experimental group used the mask for 14 days prior to photorejuvenation. Both groups used the mask for 7 days post-treatment. Changes in physiological parameters and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) were observed. Results Immediately after photorejuvenation, control group showed a significant increase in skin red area and red blood cell concentration, while experimental group did not. At 7 days post-treatment, skin hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) improved significantly in both groups, with greater improvement in the experimental group. Both groups’ DLQI decreased, with a significant reduction in the experimental group. Conclusion Facial masks containing low-temperature extracted P. oleracea show promising potential in protecting sensitive skin from photothermal stimulation and improving skin barrier function during photorejuvenation therapy.

Eyelid dermatitis: Work-up and future diagnostic innovative solutions.

Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) are multifunctional, UV-absorbing and antioxidant metabolites produced by marine algae, offering promising applications in biotechnology and dermocosmetic sciences. In this study, MAAs were sustainably extracted from nori seaweed (Porphyra spp.) using an ultrasound-assisted aqueous method, an eco-friendly approach that ensures efficiency and industrial scalability. Chromatographic enrichment followed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds, including porphyra-334, palythine, and myc-ornithine. The enriched fraction exhibited potent antioxidant activity (low IC50 in DPPH and ABTS assays) and significant anti-elastase effects, highlighting its potential as a natural anti-aging agent. To optimize delivery, MAAs were incorporated into a stable water-in-oil nanoemulsion, which maintained droplet sizes below 400 nm and a low polydispersity index (PDI &lt; 0.2) for up to four months. A randomized, double-blind clinical study in 20 volunteers further demonstrated that the MAA-based nanoemulsion significantly improved skin hydration (+53.6%) and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL), confirming its humectant and barrier-strengthening efficacy. These findings position Porphyra spp. as a sustainable marine resource for producing MAAs, and demonstrate their practical potential as natural, multifunctional ingredients in eco-conscious cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.

A novel animal scar model after major burn with a high success rate of >70 % during an observation period of 300 days.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-melanogenic properties of active fucoidan JHCF4-e and its cosmetic applications.

Introduction Physical exercise influences the function of multiple organs, including the skin. Previous studies demonstrated an increase in transepidermal water loss rates (TEWL) after exercise. However, TEWL measured shortly after exercise may not truly reflect the epidermal permeability barrier function. And the limited sample size may also affect the generalizability of the findings. Therefore, we assessed the influence of physical exercise on epidermal biophysical properties in a larger cohort prior to exercise. Participants and Methods A total of 327 university students without inflammatory skin disorders or other diseases which may affect epidermal function were enrolled in this study. Epidermal biophysical properties, including TEWL, stratum corneum hydration levels and skin surface pH on the volar site of the forearm and shin were measured with a multifunctional skin physiology monitor. The correlation between epidermal biophysical properties and duration of daily exercise were determined. Results This cohort included 168 females and 159 males with a mean age of 18.91 ± 0.04 years. On the forearm, TEWL were lower in females than in males, while on the shin, both stratum corenum hydration levels and skin surface pH were significantly higher in females than in males. No significant differences in other parameters were boserved between males and females. Overall, there were no significant differences in epidermal biophysical propertied among individuals with various daily exercise duration over the past month although there was a trend of higher stratum corneum hydration levels among individuals with longer duration of exercise. However, TEWL on the shin of females positively correlated with the daily exercise duration. Conclusions. There are slight but significant differences in some epidermal biophysical properties between male and female university students. Overall, exercise does not dramatically affect TEWL, stratum corneum hydration levels and skin surface pH on both the shin and forearm except on the shin of females where shows a positive correlation between the daily exercise duration and TEWL.

Background/Objectives: Fluid management in shock remains a clinical challenge, with ongoing debate about optimal guidance. Despite advanced technologies, fluid balance assessment is often inadequate. The SkInShock study investigated whether transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements could improve fluid balance estimation and serve as a non-invasive marker of vascular tone in patients with septic or cardiogenic shock. Methods: In this prospective single-center feasibility study (DRKS00027981), TEWL was measured daily in eight mechanically ventilated patients using a Tewameter® (Courage+Khazaka, Cologne, Germany), which quantifies transcutaneous water evaporation. Total daily skin water loss was calculated either via direct TEWL measurements or an estimation formula (6 mL/kg/day + 20%/°C deviation from 37 °C). Systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) was measured simultaneously using PiCCO® technology (Pulsion Medical Systems, Munich, Germany) to evaluate the relationship between TEWL and vascular tone. Results: TEWL values were consistent across most body sites, except the forehead. TEWL-based estimates of skin water loss were significantly lower than formula-based estimates (p &lt; 0.01). Formula-based values overestimated water loss at low TEWL levels and underestimated it at higher levels, with deviations reaching ±100%. While absolute TEWL values did not correlate with SVRI, intra-individually normalized values showed a significant negative correlation, indicating that higher skin water loss corresponded to lower vascular tone. Conclusions: TEWL measurement is feasible in ICU patients and may enhance fluid balance assessment and vascular tone monitoring. Our preliminary findings indicate that this non-invasive method could complement current diagnostics but warrants further investigation in larger cohorts.

Surfactant molecular architecture—head-group charge/size, alkyl chain length/branching, and ethoxylation degree—dictates interfacial behavior and skin compatibility. We systematically reviewed studies (2015–2025; PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect) comparing anionic, cationic, zwitterionic, nonionic, and biosurfactants in cosmetic-relevant systems. Evidence shows (i) cleansing efficacy scales with packing parameter and critical micelle concentration (CMC), while irritation correlates with protein denaturation indices and transepidermal water loss (TEWL); (ii) anionics with C_12–C_14 chains and high zein values cleanse efficiently but raise irritation risk; (iii) amphoterics (e.g., CAPB) and nonionics (e.g., Laureth-23, APGs) reduce TEWL increase by 20–40% versus SLS at matched soil removal; (iv) biosurfactants offer superior biodegradability but face cost and batch-to-batch variability. We outline structure-guided formulation rules—optimized HLB (10–14) and mixed micelles with amphoterics—to balance cleansing and dermatological compatibility.

Skin compatibility is a common issue and can often be worsened by certain ingredients in cosmetics. This is why developing well-balanced and -tolerated formulas is now an essential challenge. In this work we developed a cream rich in antioxidant, soothing, and moisturizing agents complying with concentration limits for sensitive skin. An initial optimization was carried out, and the best-performing formula was fully characterized to test its rheological properties under static or dynamic conditions and product safety. The formulation proved to be highly stable even under thermal stress, as shown by Turbiscan Lab analyses, which reported backscattering values ±2. Rheological tests also indicated a solid-like behavior with reduced viscosity at skin temperature of 32 °C, confirming the good spreadability of the cream. Finally, in vivo tests on healthy volunteers showed excellent safety results and good overall appreciation of the product. No changes in transepidermal water loss (7.9 ± 3.5 vs. 5.5 ± 0.4, p &gt; 0.05), skin hydration (44.2 ± 18.6 vs. 50.5 ± 14.1, p &gt; 0.05), or color were detected within 6 h from application, compared with baseline values. Moreover, volunteers highlighted the cream’s suitability for dry skin and expressed satisfaction with spreadability, a nourishing and hydrating sensation after application, and the absence of residues, consistently rating them ≥4 in the skin feeling questionnaire. These results are promising and support the potential use of the product on sensitive skin.

Hairdressers apprentices (HA) are exposed to skin hazards during vocational education. To assess the use of protective gloves and moisturisers, and their relationship with parameters of skin barrier function and hand eczema (HE) among HAs during their 3-year education. HAs from 25 Croatian schools were followed up at the end of each of the school years (N = 337, 317, and 174, respectively). Protocol included a questionnaire with evaluation of self-reported skin symptoms, glove use, and skin care during practical training, Osnabrueck Hand Eczema Severity Index (OHSI) for clinical skin assessment, skin pH, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements. The use of protective gloves and moisturisers was insufficiently implemented throughout the schooling. Glove usage was related to lower hand TEWL at the 1st follow-up and lower OHSI at the 2nd follow-up. Use of moisturisers was related to lower skin pH at the 1st follow-up. During the 3rd follow-up, glove usage was related to higher OHSI and skin pH, and use of moisturisers was associated with clinical signs of HE. Results suggest a positive effect of protective measures on skin barrier function and prevention of HE during the first 2 years of schooling. Their insufficient implementation from the beginning of education results in late implementation at a secondary prevention level.

Hand eczema, skin barrier function and skin microbial contamination among waste workers are underexplored. This study aims to assess: (1) the prevalence and risk factors of hand eczema, (2) the levels of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and (3) skin microbial contamination in waste sorting workers. Using the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire-2002, data were collected from 69 waste sorting workers and 25 office personnel. TEWL was measured with a Tewameter (TM 300, Courage+ Khazaka Electronic, Köln). Microbial skin samples were collected from the left dorsal hand with sterile swabs (Copan, Italy) and cultured. Analyses included descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression. The hand eczema prevalence was 25% among waste workers and 40% in office personnel. The prevalence of hand eczema was significantly lower among exposed workers compared to controls (p = 0.012). TEWL and fungal concentrations were comparable across groups. Atopic dermatitis (AD) and nicotine use were significant predictors of HE. The prevalence of hand eczema experienced during the past week was significantly associated with elevated bacterial concentrations (p value = 0.05) in both groups. Waste sorting workers had up to 2.4 times higher prevalence of hand eczema compared with the general population, but a lower prevalence than office workers in the same industry. These findings may reflect a potential healthy worker effect. The potential role of bacterial concentrations in the occurrence of hand eczema warrants further investigation.

Porcine placenta peptides as a complementary functional food for skin rejuvenation: A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.