Effective skin decontamination with RSDL® (reactive skin decontamination lotion kit) following dermal exposure to a Novichok class nerve agent.

In recent years, various poisoning incidents have been reported, involving the alleged use of the so-called Novichok agents, resulting in their addition to the Schedule I list of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Warfare (OPCW). As the physicochemical properties of these agents are different from the 'classical' nerve agents, such as VX, research is needed to evaluate whether and to what extent existing countermeasures are effective. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of RSDL® (Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion Kit) for the neutralization of percutaneous toxicity caused by Novichok agents, both in vitro and in vivo. Experiments showed the three selected Novichok agents (A230, A232, A234) could be degraded by RSDL lotion, but at a different rate. The half-life of A234, in the presence of an excess of RSDL lotion, was 36 min, as compared to A230 (<5 min) and A232 (18 min). Following dermal exposure of guinea pigs to A234, application of the RSDL kit was highly effective in preventing intoxication, even when applied up until 30 min following exposure. Delayed use of the RSDL kit until the appearance of clinical signs of intoxication (3-4 h) was not able to prevent intoxication progression and deaths. This study determines RSDL decontamination as an effective treatment strategy for dermal exposure to the Novichok agent A234 and underscores the importance of early, forward use of skin decontamination, as rapidly as possible.

Influence of cosmetic foundation cream on skin condition during treadmill exercise.

BACKGROUND: There is a growing trend of individuals wearing cosmetics while participating in physical activities. Nonetheless, there remains a need for further understanding regarding the effects of makeup on the facial epidermis during exercise, given the existing knowledge gaps. PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a cosmetic foundation cream on skin conditions during physical activity. METHODS: Forty-three healthy college students, 20 males (26.3 ± 1.5 years) and 23 females (23.1 ± 1.0 years), were enrolled in this study. Foundation cream was applied to participants on half of the face in two different areas (MT: makeup T zone and MU: makeup U zone). The other half of the face served as internal control (T: non-makeup T zone and U: non-makeup U zones). Skin levels of moisture, elasticity, pore, sebum, and oil were measured using a skin analysis device (Aramhuvis, Gyeonggi, Republic of Korea) before and after a 20-min treadmill exercise. Paired t-test and independent t-test were performed for skin condition measurements at pre- and postexercise. RESULTS: The skin moisture levels in both the T and MT significantly increased after exercise (p < 0.05) (pre-T: 24.5 ± 1.3, post-T: 38.5 ± 3.5 and pre-MT: 18.7 ± 0.7, post-MT: 40.4 ± 4.8). Elasticity also significantly improved in both the T and MT (p < 0.05) (pre-T: 25.6 ± 1.3, post-T: 41.5 ± 3.5 and pre-MT: 20.0 ± 0.9, post-MT: 41.7 ± 3.7). The size of the pores in the T zone observed a significant increase after exercise (p < 0.05) (pre-T: 41.7 ± 2.1, post-T: 47.8 ± 2.4). The sebum levels in the T zone exhibited a reduction following physical activity, whereas there was a notable increase in sebum levels in the makeup zones (p < 0.05) (pre-MT: 2.4 ± 0.7, post-MT:4.2 ± 0.8 and pre MU 1.8 ± 0.34, post MU 4.9 ± 0.9). The oil level was increased in the non-makeup zones (pre-T: 6.1 ± 1.4, post-T: 11.8 ± 2.0 and pre-U: 7.3 ± 1.5, post-U: 11.9 ± 1.9; p < 0.05) and decreased in the makeup zones (pre-MT: 13.3 ± 1.9, post-MT: 7.4 ± 2.3 and pre-MU: 22.1 ± 2.4, post-MU: 3.2 ± 1.0; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that using foundation cream during aerobic exercise can reduce skin oil, causing dryness. Additionally, makeup can clog pores and increase sebum production. Therefore, wearing makeup may not be recommended for people with dry skin conditions based on the results of the current study. This research offers important insights to the public, encouraging them to consider the possible consequences of using makeup while exercising.

Characterization and anti-aging effects of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller extracts in a D-galactose-induced skin aging model.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller (OFI), belonging to the family Cactaceae, is widely cultivated not only for its delicious fruits but also for its health-promoting effects, which enhance the role of OFI as a potential functional food. In this study, the in vitro collagenase and elastase enzyme inhibitory effects of extracts from different parts of OFI were evaluated. The most promising extracts were formulated as creams at two concentrations (3 and 5%) to investigate their effects on a D-galactose (D-gal)-induced skin-aging mouse model. The ethanolic extracts of the peel and cladodes exhibited the highest enzyme inhibitory effects. Cream made from the extract of OFI peel (OP) (5%) and cream from OFI cladodes extract (OC) (5%) significantly decreased the macroscopic aging of skin scores. Only a higher concentration (5%) of OC showed the normalization of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) skin levels and achieved significant improvements as compared to the vitamin E group. Both OC and OP (5%) showed complete restoration of the normal skin structure and nearly normal collagen fibres upon histopathological examination. The Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-TOF-MS) metabolite profiles revealed the presence of organic acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, betalains, and fatty acids. Flavonoids were the predominant phytochemical class (23 and 22 compounds), followed by phenolic acids (14 and 17 compounds) in the ethanolic extracts from the peel and cladodes, respectively. The anti-skin-aging effects could be attributed to the synergism of different phytochemicals in both extracts. From these findings, the OFI peel and cladodes as agro-waste products are good candidates for anti-skin-aging phytocosmetics.

The fabrication and assessment of mosquito repellent cream for outdoor protection.

Mosquito-borne infections like dengue, malaria, chikungunya, etc. are a nuisance and can cause profound discomfort to people. Due to the objectional side effects and toxicity associated with synthetic pyrethroids, N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET), N,N-diethyl phenylacetamide (DEPA), and N,N-di ethyl benzamide (DEBA) based mosquito repellent products, we developed an essential oil (EO) based mosquito repellent cream (EO-MRC) using clove, citronella and lemongrass oil. Subsequently, a formulation characterization, bio-efficacy, and safety study of EO-MRC were carried out. Expression of Anti-OBP2A and TRPV1 proteins on mosquito head parts were studied by western blotting. In-silico screening was also conducted for the specific proteins. An FT-IR study confirmed the chemical compatibility of the EOs and excipients used in EO-MRC. The thermal behaviour of the best EOs and their mixture was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). GC-MS examination revealed various chemical components present in EOs. Efficacy of EO-MRC was correlated with 12% N,N-diethyl benzamide (DEBA) based marketed cream (DBMC). Complete protection time (CPT) of EO-MRC was determined as 228 min. Cytotoxicity study on L-132 cell line confirmed the non-toxic nature of EO-MRC upon inhalation. Acute dermal irritation study, acute dermal dose toxicity study, and acute eye irritation study revealed the non-toxic nature of EO-MRC. Non-target toxicity study on Danio rerio confirmed EO-MRC as safer for aquatic non-target animals. A decrease in the concentration of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was observed in transfluthrin (TNSF) exposed Wistar rats. While EO-MRC did not alter the AChE concentrations in the exposed animals. Results from western blotting confirmed that Anti-OBP2A and TRPV1 proteins were inhibited in TNSF exposed mosquitoes. Mosquitoes exposed to EO-MRC showed a similar expression pattern for Anti-OBP2A and TRPV1 as the control group. In silico study revealed eight identified compounds of the EOs play significant roles in the overall repellency property of the developed product. The study emphasizes the mosquito repellent activity of EO-MRC, which could be an effective, eco-friendly, and safer alternative to the existing synthetic repellents for personal protection against mosquitoes during field conditions.

Stability and Formulation of Erlotinib in Skin Creams.

Recent studies have highlighted the benefit of repurposing oral erlotinib (ERL) treatment in some rare skin diseases such as Olmsted syndrome. The use of a topical ERL skin treatment instead of the currently available ERL tablets may be appealing to treat skin disorders while reducing adverse systemic effects and exposure. A method to prepare 0.2% ERL cream, without resorting to a pure active pharmaceutical ingredient, was developed and the formulation was optimized to improve ERL stability over time. Erlotinib extraction from tablets was incomplete with Transcutol, whereas dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) allowed 100% erlotinib recovery. During preliminary studies, ERL was shown to be sensitive to oxidation and acidic pH in solution and when added to selected creams (i.e., Excipial, Nourivan Antiox, Pentravan, and Versatile). The results also showed that use of DMSO (5% v/w), neutral pH, as well as a topical agent containing antioxidant substances (Nourivan Antiox) were key factors to maintain the initial erlotinib concentration. The proposed ERL cream formulation at neutral pH contains a homogeneous amount of ERL and is stable for at least 42 days at room temperature in Nourivan cream with antioxidant properties.

A randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness and safety of adsorbent lotion containing tapioca starch, spent grain wax, Butyrospermum parkii extract, argania spinosa kernel oil, aloe barbadensis, rosehip oil, and allantoin with a low-potency topical corticosteroid in the treatment of intertrigo.

BACKGROUND: Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin-fold condition. Candida infections may occur concurrently or afterward. Topical corticosteroids may reduce inflammation but exacerbate Candida infections. The treatment is contentious. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacies and safety of adsorbent lotion containing tapioca starch, spent grain wax, Butyrospermum parkii extract, argania spinosa kernel oil, aloe barbadensis, rosehip oil, and allantoin for the treatment of mild-to-moderate intertrigo, relative to 1% hydrocortisone cream. METHODS: This randomized, double-blinded study enrolled 40 intertrigo patients. Twice daily, 20 patients applied adsorbent lotion while the remainder used 1% hydrocortisone cream. Efficacy evaluation, skin biophysical measurements, skin tolerability, safety, and visual analog scale (VAS) patient-satisfaction scores were evaluated at baseline and Week 2. RESULTS: The adsorbent lotion showed higher complete cure rates for color, partial epidermal loss, papules/pustules/vesicles/patches, dryness, and scaling than the corticosteroid without statistical significance. Adsorbent lotion demonstrated significantly higher reduction in pruritus than the corticosteroid treatment. Reduction of erythema level using Mexameter and VAS patient-satisfaction scores were not statistically different between adsorbent lotion and hydrocortisone cream. No adverse effects or superimposed infections were reported. CONCLUSIONS: The anti-inflammatory efficacies of adsorbent lotion and low-potency steroid were equivalent. The lotion was safe and produced excellent pruritus reduction. Patient satisfaction was high.

Aquatic Toxicity Effects and Risk Assessment of 'Form Specific' Product-Released Engineered Nanomaterials.

The study investigated the toxicity effects of 'form specific' engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and ions released from nano-enabled products (NEPs), namely sunscreens, sanitisers, body creams and socks on Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, Spirodela polyrhiza, and Daphnia magna. Additionally, risk estimation emanating from the exposures was undertaken. The ENMs and the ions released from the products both contributed to the effects to varying extents, with neither being a uniform principal toxicity agent across the exposures; however, the effects were either synergistic or antagonistic. D. magna and S. polyrhiza were the most sensitive and least sensitive test organisms, respectively. The most toxic effects were from ENMs and ions released from sanitisers and sunscreens, whereas body creams and sock counterparts caused negligible effects. The internalisation of the ENMs from the sunscreens could not be established; only adsorption on the biota was evident. It was established that ENMs and ions released from products pose no imminent risk to ecosystems; instead, small to significant adverse effects are expected in the worst-case exposure scenario. The study demonstrates that while ENMs from products may not be considered to pose an imminent risk, increasing nanotechnology commercialization may increase their environmental exposure and risk potential; therefore, priority exposure cases need to be examined.

Aspergillus oryzae-Fermented Wheat Peptone Enhances the Potential of Proliferation and Hydration of Human Keratinocytes through Activation of p44/42 MAPK.

Identifying materials contributing to skin hydration, essential for normal skin homeostasis, has recently gained increased research interest. In this study, we investigated the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of Aspergillus oryzae-fermented wheat peptone (AFWP) on the proliferation and hydration of human skin keratinocytes, through in vitro experiments using HaCaT cell lines. The findings revealed that compared to unfermented wheat peptone, AFWP exhibited an improved amino acid composition, significantly (p < 0.05) higher DPPH scavenging capability and cell proliferation activity, and reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, we separated AFWP into eleven fractions, each ≤2 kDa; of these, fraction 4 (AFW4) demonstrated the highest efficacy in the cell proliferation assay and was found to be the key component responsible for the cell proliferation potential and antioxidant properties of AFWP. Additionally, AFW4 increased the expression of genes encoding natural moisturizing factors, including filaggrin, transglutaminase-1, and hyaluronic acid synthase 1-3. Furthermore, AFW4 activated p44/42 MAPK, but not JNK and p38 MAPK, whereas PD98059, a p44/42 MAPK inhibitor, attenuated the beneficial effects of AFW4 on the skin, suggesting that the effects of AFW4 are mediated via p44/42 MAPK activation. Finally, in clinical studies, AFW4 treatment resulted in increased skin hydration and reduced trans-epidermal water loss compared with a placebo group. Collectively, these data provide evidence that AFW4 could be used as a potential therapeutic agent to improve skin barrier damage induced by external stresses.

Effect of Rubbing Application on the Skin Permeation of Active Ingredients from Lotion and Cream.

Effect of rubbing application on the skin permeation of a hydrophilic drug caffeine (CAF) and lipophilic drug rhododendrol (RD) from lotion and cream were investigated. Skin permeation of CAF was markedly increased by rubbing action independent of the formulation type. In addition, the skin penetration-enhancement effect was affected by the rubbing direction: rubbing application against the direction of hair growth showed the highest permeation compared with rubbing applications along the direction of hair growth and in a circular pattern on the skin. On the other hand, no enhancement effect was observed by the rubbing actions on the skin permeation of RD, regardless of formulation type. Change in the infundibula orifice size of hair follicles by the rubbing and following skin stretching may be related to the higher skin permeation for CAF. In contrast, high RD distribution into the stratum corneum may be a reason why no enhancement effect was observed by the rubbing action. These results can be helpful to predict safety and effectiveness of topically applied formulations.

Downregulation of MMP1 expression mediates the anti-aging activity of Citrus sinensis peel extract nanoformulation in UV induced photoaging in mice.

Aging of the skin is a complicated bioprocess that is affected by constant exposure to ultraviolet irradiation. The application of herbal-based anti-aging creams is still the best choice for treatment. In the present study, Citrus sinensis L. fruit peels ethanolic extract (CSPE) was formulated into lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) anti-aging cream. Eight different formulations of CSEP-LNPs were prepared and optimized using 23 full factorial designs. In vivo antiaging effect of the best formula was tested in Swiss albino mice where photo-aging was induced by exposure to UV radiation. HPLC-QToF-MS/MS metabolic profiling of CSPE led to the identification of twenty-nine metabolites. CSPE was standardized to a hesperidin content of 15.53 ± 0.152 mg% using RP-HPLC. It was suggested that the optimized formulation (F7) had (245 nm) particle size, (91.065%) EE, and (91.385%) occlusive effect with a spherical and smooth surface. The visible appearance of UV-induced photoaging in mice was significantly improved after topical application on CSPE-NLC cream for 5 weeks, levels of collagen and SOD were significantly increased in CSPE- NLC group, while levels of PGE2, COX2, JNK, MDA, and elastin was reduced. Finally, The prepared anti-aging CSPE-NLC cream represents a safe, convenient, and promising skincare cosmetic product.

Agarose Stearate-Carbomer940 as Stabilizer and Rheology Modifier for Surfactant-Free Cosmetic Formulations.

Some commonly used surfactants in cosmetic products raise concerns due to their skin-irritating effects and environmental contamination. Multifunctional, high-performance polymers are good alternatives to overcome these problems. In this study, agarose stearate (AS) with emulsifying, thickening, and gel properties was synthesized. Surfactant-free cosmetic formulations were successfully prepared from AS and carbomer940 (CBM940) mixed systems. The correlation of rheological parameter with skin feeling was determined to study the usability of the mixed systems in cosmetics. Based on rheological analysis, the surfactant-free cosmetic cream (SFC) stabilized by AS-carbomer940 showed shear-thinning behavior and strongly synergistic action. The SFC exhibited a gel-like behavior and had rheological properties similar to commercial cosmetic creams. Scanning electron microscope images proved that the AS-CBM940 network played an important role in SFC's stability. Oil content could reinforce the elastic characteristics of the AS-CBM940 matrix. The SFCs showed a good appearance and sensation during and after rubbing into skin. The knowledge gained from this study may be useful for designing surfactant-free cosmetic cream with rheological properties that can be tailored for particular commercial cosmetic applications. They may also be useful for producing medicine products with highly viscous or gel-like textures, such as some ointments and wound dressings.

Perfume and Flavor Engineering: A Chemical Engineering Perspective.

In the last two decades, scientific methodologies for the prediction of the design, performance and classification of fragrance mixtures have been developed at the Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering. This review intends to give an overview of such developments. It all started with the question: what do we smell? The Perfumery Ternary Diagram enables us to determine the dominant odor for each perfume composition. Evaporation and 1D diffusion model is analyzed based on vapor-liquid equilibrium and Fick's law for diffusion giving access to perfume performance parameters. The effect of matrix and skin is addressed and the trail of perfumes analyzed. Classification of perfumes with the perfumery radar is discussed. The methodology is extended to flavor and taste engineering. Finally, future research directions are suggested.

Analysis of Mercury in Skin Lightening Cream by Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES).

This research aimed at developing an analysis method, which was optimized and validated to determine the content of mercury in skin lightening cream discovered in the market in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, through the use of microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES). The optimization on the analysis method was conducted on pump rate, viewing position, and reductant concentration in order to obtain the highest mercury emission intensity, while the solution stability was optimized to know the stability of mercury in the solution. The result showed that the method developed had precision with a relative standard deviation of 2.67%, recovery value of 92.78%, and linearity with an r value of 0.993, respectively. The sensitivity of the instrument detection had a limit of analysis method detection and quantification of 0.59 and 1.98 µg/L, respectively. The results of the test of the lightening cream (8 of 16 samples) positively contained mercury in the range of 422.61-44,960.79 ng/g. Therefore the method of analysis developed may be used for routine analysis of chemicals in any cosmetics products.

Formulation of Pickering emulsions for the development of surfactant-free sunscreen creams.

OBJECTIVE: Pickering emulsions are increasingly used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields, especially for topical applications, since these systems require solid particles as emulsifiers instead of surfactants which are known to cause skin irritation. The solid inorganic nanoparticles (TiO2 and ZnO) used as UV filters in sunscreen formulations may also stabilize emulsion droplets, so that the utility of surfactants may be questioned. Surfactant-free sunscreen emulsions solely stabilized by such nanoparticles (NPs) have been studied. METHODS: The ability of these NPs to stabilize o/w emulsions containing a 'model' oil phase, the C12 -C15 alkylbenzoate, has been assessed. ZnO and hydrophilic silica-coated TiO2 NPs widely used in sunscreen products were used together with their mixtures. The emulsification efficiency, the control of droplet size and the stability of o/w Pickering emulsions solely stabilized by NPs were investigated. A ZnO/TiO2 NPs mixture characterized by a theoretical SPF of 45 was finally used as unique emulsifiers to develop a surfactant-free sunscreen emulsion. RESULTS: Stable Pickering emulsions containing 10 up to 60 wt% of C12 -C15 alkyl benzoate were formulated with 2 wt% ZnO in the aqueous phase. The droplet size was controlled by the solid NPs content with respect to oil and the emulsification process. Hydrophilic TiO2 NPs did not allow the stabilization of emulsions. The substitution of TiO2 for ZnO up to 60-70 wt% in a 20/80 o/w emulsion was successfully performed. Finally, a ZnO/TiO2 NP mixture was tested as unique emulsifier system for the formulation of a sunscreen cream. Despite a lower viscosity, the obtained Pickering emulsion was stable and exhibited a photoprotective effect similar to the corresponding surfactant-based sunscreen cream with an in vitro SPF of about 45. CONCLUSION: Surfactant-free Pickering emulsions can be stabilized by the UV-filter nanoparticles for the manufacture of sunscreen products.

OBJECTIFS: Les émulsions de Pickering sont de plus en plus utilisées dans les domaines pharmaceutique et cosmétique, notamment pour les applications topiques, car ces systèmes utilisent des particules solides comme émulsifiants au lieu de tensioactifs qui sont connus pour provoquer des irritations cutanées. Les nanoparticules inorganiques solides (TiO2 et ZnO) utilisées comme filtres UV dans les formulations d'écran solaire peuvent également stabiliser les gouttelettes d'émulsion, de sorte que l'utilité des tensioactifs peut être remise en question. Des émulsions de protection solaire sans tensioactifs et uniquement stabilisées par de telles nanoparticules (NP) ont été étudiées. MÉTHODES: La capacité de ces NP à stabiliser les émulsions H/E contenant une phase huileuse «modèle¼, le benzoate d'alkyle C12 -C15 , a été évaluée. Des NP de ZnO et de TiO2 couvert de silice hydrophile, que l'on trouve largement dans les produits de protection solaire, ont été utilisées séparément et en mélange. L'efficacité d'émulsification, le contrôle de la taille des gouttelettes et la stabilité des émulsions de Pickering H/E uniquement stabilisées par les NP ont été étudiés. Un mélange de NP ZnO/TiO2 caractérisé par un SPF théorique de 45 a finalement été utilisé comme émulsifiant unique pour développer une émulsion de protection solaire sans tensioactif. RÉSULTATS: Des émulsions de Pickering stables contenant 10 à 60% en poids de benzoate d'alkyle C12 -C15 ont été formulées avec 2% en poids de ZnO dans la phase aqueuse. La taille des gouttelettes était contrôlée par la teneur en NP solides par rapport à l'huile et le procédé d'émulsification. Les NP de TiO2 hydrophile n'ont pas permis la stabilisation des émulsions. La substitution des NP de TiO2 par du ZnO jusqu'à 60-70% en poids dans une émulsion 20/80 H/E a été réalisée avec succès. Enfin, un mélange de NP ZnO/TiO2 a été testé en tant que système émulsifiant unique pour la formulation d'une crème solaire. Malgré une viscosité plus faible, l'émulsion de Pickering obtenue était stable et présentait un effet photoprotecteur similaire à la crème solaire à base de tensioactif correspondante avec un SPF in vitro d'environ 45. CONCLUSION: Les émulsions Pickering sans tensioactifs peuvent être stabilisées par les nanoparticules de filtre UV pour la formulation de produits de protection solaire.

A Novel Multi-Action Emollient Plus Cream Improves Skin Barrier Function in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: In vitro and Clinical Evidence.

BACKGROUND: Emollients capable of restoring the skin barrier function would extend their role beyond basic maintenance therapy in atopic dermatitis (AD). OBJECTIVES: Investigate the effect of a novel emollient plus cream (EC; Dermoflan®) on the skin barrier in vitro and in patients with mild-to-moderate AD. METHODS: The effect of EC on the skin barrier recovery was evaluated using a tape-stripping (TS) model. After TS, organ cultures were treated with EC (undiluted or diluted 1:1 with water) and analyzed at 18-120 h using hematoxylin and eosin, Oil Red O, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescent techniques. In a double-blind, randomized study, EC or placebo was applied once daily for 2 months to antecubital folds of the upper and lower limbs of patients with mild-to-moderate AD in clinical remission. Epidermal thickness, vascularization, and epidermal hydration were assessed by optical coherence tomography and corneometry, respectively, at baseline, and 1 and 2 months following treatment initiation. RESULTS: Following TS, EC treatment significantly increased epidermal thickness and lipid content versus diluent in the skin organ culture, as well as claudin-1, involucrin, and caspase-14 expression, suggesting skin barrier repair. EC treatment also decreased keratin-16 expression and increased levels of Toll-like receptors 1 and 2 versus diluent, suggesting involvement in regulating the epidermal immune response. In 20 patients randomized 1:1 to EC or placebo, EC treatment at the elbow fold/popliteal fossa significantly decreased epidermal thickness after 2 months, and the number of blood vessels at the elbow fold after 1 and 2 months, versus placebo. EC significantly improved the skin hydration after 2 months versus baseline. CONCLUSIONS: This novel multi-action EC may help to restore epidermal homeostasis and improve the skin of patients with AD. Results indicate that this novel multi-action EC could be a valid adjuvant therapy in patients with AD. Key Message: Novel multi-action emollient cream helps to restore epidermal homeostasis and improves the skin affected by AD.

MOF-74@SiO2 core-shell stationary phase: Preparation and its applications for mixed-mode chromatographic separation.

The development of versatile mixed-mode stationary phase materials is of important meanings for solving the increasing demands for real sample analysis. Herein, with 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid as the organic ligand and nickel as the metal centre, MOF-74 nanocrystal materials were facilely grafted on the surface of carboxyl-functionalized silica gel via layer-by-layer assembling technique. The structures of the monodisperse MOF-74@SiO2 material were proved by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller specific surface area and pore size analyzer, respectively. Because the introduced 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid is of hydrophilic carboxyl and hydroxyl groups, the packed MOF-74@SiO2 column reveals hydrophilic interaction/reversed-phase mixed-mode retention properties. Compared with commercial C8 column or silica-based column, the MOF-74@SiO2 column shows distrinct separation selectivity in short separation time for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phenolic compounds and polar sulfonamide compounds. The developed MOF-74@SiO2 column was further successfully applied for the separation and detection of illegal addition of glucocorticoid in children's face cream as well as sulfonamides veterinary drug residues in pure milk. The research provides a simple and convenient approach to prepare multifunctional MOFs-based stationary phase materials.

Formulation development of cream with mupirocin and essential oils for eradication of biofilm mediated antimicrobial resistance.

Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) is both a colonizer as well as a human pathogen that causes a variety of diseases. Mupirocin is a topical antimicrobial agent which is very effective against S.aureus infection. However, treating the S.aureus infection using mupirocin could be complicated due to biofilm formation. Consequently, resistance to mupirocin occurs and leads to chronic infection. The combination of mupirocin with a compound that has biofilm eradicating effect would be an ideal solution for effectively treating biofilm infections. Therefore, in this study, we have investigated the biofilm inhibitory and eradication effect of mupirocin with three essential oils (Cinnamon Oil (CO), Eugenol (EU) and Eucalyptus Oil (EO)) against sessile S.aureus. From these preliminary results, it was found that the mupirocin-CO (0.2 µg/ml-5.218 mg/ml) combination has a better synergistic antibiofilm effect against sessile S.aureus and the fractional inhibitory concentration index was found to be 0.458. The best combination of mupirocin with CO was loaded into a non-greasy O/W cream. The physico-chemical and microbiological evaluations were carried out for the prepared cream. The prepared cream has better biofilm eradication activity (40%) when compared to a marketed cream (20%).

Men's Facial Moisturizers in the Metrosexual Era.

BACKGROUND: Manufacturers are increasingly branding personal care products (PCPs) specifically for men. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to characterize ingredients and claims of facial moisturizers marketed to men. METHODS: Men's facial moisturizers from 7 different online retailers were identified in June-September 2018. Ingredients were grouped and identified per the Ingredient Database of the Personal Care Products Council. Potential allergens were identified using the 2017 American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) Core Allergen Series and 2017-2018 North American Contact Dermatitis Group Screening Series. RESULTS: Sixty-five men's facial moisturizers were identified with a total of 1930 ingredients. On average, there were 12 ACDS Core and 9 North American Contact Dermatitis Group Screening allergens per product. A total of 70.8% of products contained between 6 and 15 ACDS Core allergens. The most notable allergens were fragrances (present in 98.5% of products), propylene glycol/derivatives (32.3%), parabens (29.2%), and alkyl glucosides (26.2%). Interestingly, less than 10% of products contained the most common allergenic preservatives in PCPs: formaldehyde releasers and methylisothiazolinone. CONCLUSIONS: Men's facial moisturizers commonly contain fragrances, emulsifiers, and glucosides but relatively few allergenic preservatives. This may reflect changes in modern PCP preservation. These findings are important for modern dermatologists to be aware, especially in a new era of male skincare.

Frequency of Allergenic Ingredients in Antifungal Creams.

BACKGROUND: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) may occur secondary to topical antifungals containing potential allergens in their vehicles. Variation of allergenic ingredients among commonly used antifungal creams (AFCs) has not been well characterized. OBJECTIVE: The study goal was to assess the frequency of allergenic ingredients in 4 commonly used topical AFCs. METHODS: Topical AFCs (clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and terbinafine) were selected, and the ingredient lists for these products were obtained from the US Food and Drug Administration's Online Label Repository via a proprietary name search. A systematic literature review was performed using the ingredient name on MEDLINE (PubMed) database to identify reports of ACD confirmed by patch testing. RESULTS: Of the 20 ingredients analyzed, 6 had frequent allergenic potential. Propylene glycol was the most common cause of ACD identified in the literature and is an ingredient in ketoconazole 2% and miconazole nitrate 2%. Ketoconazole 2% and miconazole nitrate 2% creams contained the highest number of potential allergens (n = 3) among the 4 creams analyzed. CONCLUSIONS: Of the 4 creams, terbinafine hydrochloride 1% and clotrimazole 1% contained the least number of potential allergenic ingredients. Awareness of the allergenic potential of commonly used AFCs may help health care providers when evaluating patients with ACD.