Oral Intake of Enzymatically Decomposed AP Collagen Peptides Improves Skin Moisture and Ceramide and Natural Moisturizing Factor Contents in the Stratum Corneum.

The stratum corneum (SC) is the outermost layer of the epidermis and plays an important role in maintaining skin moisture and protecting the skin from the external environment. Ceramide and natural moisturizing factor (NMF) are the major SC components that maintain skin moisture. In this study, we investigated whether the oral intake of enzymatically decomposed AP collagen peptides (APCPs) can improve skin moisture and barrier function by assessing changes in the ceramide and NMF contents in the SC after APCP ingestion with the aim to develop a skin functional food. Fifty participants orally ingested APCP (1000 mg) or placebo for 12 weeks, and then, skin hydration and skin texture were evaluated. SC samples were collected to analyze skin scaling, ceramide, and NMF contents. Participants in the APCP group exhibited improved skin moisture content by 7.33% (p = 0.031) and roughness by -4.09% (p = 0.036) when compared with those in the placebo group. NMF content; the amounts of amino acids (AA), including glycine and proline; and AA derivatives were significantly increased in the APCP group (31.98 µg/mg protein) compared to those in the placebo group (-16.01 µg/mg protein) (p = 0.006). The amounts of total ceramides and ceramide subclasses were significantly higher in the APCP group than in the placebo group (p = 0.014). In conclusion, our results demonstrate that APCP intake improves skin moisture and increase the ceramide and NMF contents in the SC, thereby enhancing the skin barrier function.

Silicone based water-in-oil emulsion fortified with anthocyanin: In-vitro, in-vivo study.

Skin care formulations with antioxidants are being widely explored for their benefits to human skin. The purpose of this study was to formulate a stable w/o emulsion containing anthocyanin derived from Malus dosmestica fruit extract and to further explore its beneficial effects on normal human skin. Anthocyanin was extracted using various solvents from the peel of Malus dosmestica fruit. w/o creams containing anthocyanin has been prepared and systematically characterized for various physiochemical properties in terms of stability at varying conditions of storage. An efficacy study has been carried out on 12 male healthy Asian subjects to determine effects of anthocyanin on skin melanin, erythema, skin moisture, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and on skin sebum. Solvent system containing methanol/acetone/water (3.5: 3.5: 3 v/v/v) including 1% formic acid established a best recovery of anthocyanin from fruit peel. W/O emulsions presented promising stability profile when kept at different storage conditions over 90 days period. All skin parameters studied, anthocyanin has been found more efficacious (p<0.05) for its effects on skin melanin and erythema content of skin. It has been shown that a topical application of anthocyanin derived from Malus domestica has substantial potential for human skin system and needs some patient oriented studies could warrant its potential for damaged skin.

Barrier disruption, dehydration and inflammation: Investigation of the vicious circle underlying dry skin.

OBJECTIVE: Many endogenous or exogenous factors, isolated or combined, can trigger dry skin disorder, leading to a water/lipids-depleted stratum corneum concomitant with uncomfortable rough and scaly skin surface. In a defensive reaction, the alteration of the skin barrier stimulates the production of cytokines to initiate homeostasis restoration but this can also induce an inflammatory response that further weakens the barrier. The two phenomena intertwining one another lead to the creation of a vicious circle, here called Inflamm'dryness, that maintains dry skin state. It is thus very important to investigate biological mechanisms involved in Inflamm'dryness to better manage dry skin. METHODS: A 3D model mimicking dry skin has been developed. Adjustment of tape stripping level allowed to reproduce skin barrier alterations and resulting inflammation involved in dry skin. The effect of Helichrysum stoechas extract on this downward spiral was then investigated to validate the concept. RESULTS: Tape-stripping permitted to successively remove the cell layers of the stratum corneum: the barrier function was altered and skin was inflamed creating a vicious circle, mimicking very dry skin prone to Inflamm'dryness. Helichrysum stoechas extract was not only able to resolve inflammation but also to reverse concurrently adverse tape-stripping effects and imparted significant structural and functional recovery of the barrier (e.g. on NMF and ceramides levels, TEWL, tissue organization). CONCLUSION: This 3D model reproduces Inflamm'dryness vicious circle present in dry skin and highlights the importance of breaking this process to improve dry skin conditions. Helichrysum stoechas extract is a promising active ingredient for the management of dry skin.

OBJECTIF: De nombreux facteurs endogènes ou exogènes, isoles ou combines, peuvent être à l'origine de sècheresse cutanée, conduisant à une peau en manque d'eau et de lipides : la peau tiraille, présente parfois un l'aspect rugueux (voire la présence de squames) et des sensations d'inconfort. Cette altération de la barrière cutanée induit la production de cytokines permettant la restauration de l'homéostasie de la peau mais induisant également une réponse inflammatoire fragilisant davantage la barrière cutanée. Ces deux phénomènes conduisent à la création d'un cercle vicieux, l'Inflamm'dryness, qui entretient l'état de sécheresse de la peau. Il semble donc important d'étudier les mécanismes biologiques impliqués dans le phénomène d'Inflamm'dryness afin de mieux prendre soin des peaux sèches. MÉTHODES: Un modèle 3D mimant une peau sèche a été développé. Un ajustement du nombre de tape-strippings a été nécessaire afin de reproduire les défauts de barrière ainsi que de l'inflammation caractéristiques des peaux sèches. L'effet d'un extrait d'Helichrysum stoechas sur cette spirale négative a ensuite été étudié pour valider le concept. RÉSULTATS: L'étape de tape-stripping a permis de retirer successivement les couches superficielles du stratum corneum: la fonction barrière est altérée et la peau est enflammée créant un cercle vicieux, mimant une peau très sèche sujette à l'Inflamm'dryness. L'extrait d'Helichrysum stoechas est non seulement capable de résoudre l'inflammation, mais également de restaurer la fonction barrière de la peau (quantités de NMF et de céramides, la perte insensible en eau, organisation des tissus…). CONCLUSION: Ce modèle 3D reproduit le cercle vicieux de l'Inflamm'dryness caractéristique des peaux sèches et met en évidence l'importance de rompre ce processus afin de remédier à la sécheresse cutanée. L'extrait d'Helichrysum stoechas développé est un actif prometteur pour le soin des peaux sèches.

Partially Hydrolysed Whey-Based Infant Formula Improves Skin Barrier Function.

Specific partially hydrolysed whey-based infant formulas (pHF-W) have been shown to decrease the risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) in infants. Historically, AD has been associated primarily with milk allergy; however, defective skin barrier function can be a primary cause of AD. We aimed to ascertain whether oral supplementation with pHF-W can improve skin barrier function. The effect of pHF-W was assessed on transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and antibody productions in mice epicutaneously exposed to Aspergillus fumigatus. Human primary keratinocytes were stimulated in vitro, and the expression of genes related to skin barrier function was measured. Supplementation with pHF-W in neonatal mice led to a significant decrease in TEWL and total IgE, but not in allergen-specific antibody levels. The whey hydrolysate was sufficient to decrease both TEWL and total IgE. Aquaporin-3 gene expression, linked with skin hydration, was modulated in the skin of mice and human primary keratinocytes following protein hydrolysate exposure. Skin barrier improvement may be an additional mechanism by which pHF-W may potentially reduce the risk of AD development in infants. Further human studies are warranted to confirm the clinical efficacy of these observations.

Dietary Ceramide Prepared from Soy Sauce Lees Improves Skin Barrier Function in Hairless Mice.

Dietary sphingolipids such as glucosylceramide and sphingomyelin are known to improve the skin barrier function of damaged skin. In this study, we focused on free-ceramide prepared from soy sauce lees, which is a byproduct of soy sauce production. The effects of dietary soy sauce lees ceramide on the skin of normal mice were evaluated and compared with those of dietary maize glucosylceramide. We found that transepidermal water loss value was significantly suppressed by dietary supplementation with soy sauce lees ceramide as effectively as or more effectively than maize glucosylceramide. Although the content of total and each subclass of ceramide in the epidermis was not significantly altered by dietary sphingolipids, that of 12 types of ceramide molecules, which were not present in dietary sources, was significantly increased upon ingestion of maize glucosylceramide and showed a tendency to increase with soy sauce lees ceramide intake. In addition, the mRNA expression of ceramide synthase 4 and involucrin in the skin was downregulated by sphingolipids. This study, for the first time, demonstrated that dietary soy sauce lees ceramide enhances skin barrier function in normal hairless mice, although further studies are needed to clarify the molecular mechanism.

Protective effect of taurine on UVB-induced skin aging in hairless mice.

Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid derivative, exists at a high concentration in the skin and is considered to play an important role in maintaining moisture homeostasis. This study investigated the effects of oral taurine supplementation on epidermal moisture content and wrinkle formation, as well as skin taurine content, using ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated hairless mice. Wrinkles were induced by exposing hairless mice to UVB radiation (70-100 mJ/cm2). Taurine was dissolved in drinking water at a concentration of 0.3 or 3% (w/v) and given to the mice ad libitum for 2-10 weeks. Taurine was then extracted from the dorsal skin, and the skin taurine content was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The wrinkles were evaluated using a wrinkle score and the quantitative wrinkle area ratio. The exposure of the mice to UVB radiation for 4 weeks resulted in a decreased moisture content and increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in the skin, while taurine supplementation suppressed these changes. Oral supplementation with taurine for 8 weeks ameliorated the development of UVB-induced wrinkle formation. Furthermore, oral taurine supplementation for 4 weeks decreased pre-stablished wrinkles in a dose-dependent manner. Although the UVB radiation reduced the epidermal taurine content, oral taurine supplementation partly restored the taurine content in the epidermis. The present study showed that oral taurine supplementation is able to suppress UVB-induced wrinkle formation, which may be associated with the regulation of moisture content in the epidermis. The beneficial effects of taurine on skin aging may be attributed to its osmoregulatory role.

Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Properties of Plant Extract from Dry Flowers as Functional Dyes for Cosmetic Products.

Nowadays, natural dyes are expected by the cosmetic and food industries. In contrast to synthetic dyes, colorants derived from natural sources are more environmentally friendly and safer for human health. In this work, plant extracts from Gomphrena globasa L., Clitoria ternatea L., Carthamus tinctorius L., Punica granatum L. and Papaver rhoeas L. as the natural and functional dyes for the cosmetics industry were assessed. Cytotoxicity on keratinocyte and fibroblast cell lines was determined as well as antioxidant and anti-aging properties by determining their ability to inhibit the activity of collagenase and elastase enzymes. In addition, the composition of the extracts was determined. The obtained extracts were also applied in face cream formulation and color analyses were performed. It has been shown that the obtained extracts were characterized by no cytotoxicity and a high antioxidant potential. The extracts also show strong ability to inhibit the activity of collagenase and moderate ability to inhibit elastase and provide effective and long-lasting hydration after their application on the skin. Application analyses showed that the extracts of P. rhoeas L., C. ternatea L. and C. tinctorius L. can be used as effective cosmetic dyes that allow for attainment of an intense and stable color during the storage of the product. The extracts of P. granatum L. and G. globasa L., despite their beneficial effects as active ingredients, did not work effectively as cosmetic dyes, because cosmetic emulsions with these extracts did not differ significantly in color from emulsions without the extract.

The ABC Topical Management of Atopic Dermatitis in Philippines: Expert Recommendations.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) has been shown to have an increasing incidence in Asia, congruous with the trends observed worldwide. The severity of the condition has been associated with challenges in disease control. Moreover, a significant number of patients do not adhere to their physicians’ recommendations correctly and prefer alternative treatments. Better education regarding the nature of the disease and its appropriate management may improve patient compliance and lead to better control. An ABC scheme of AD management entails anti-inflammatory, barrier repair and basic skin care strategies to adequately manage AD. It is an easy-to-follow model which helps lessen distress and improve the quality of life amongst patients. An expert panel composed of specialists in the field of dermatology and pediatric dermatology in the Philippines convened to review current data and management practices in order to provide key treatment recommendations and identify current gaps in the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. This scientific expert panel, likewise, seeks to provide guidance for all healthcare professionals involved in the care and management of AD patients.J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(1):84-87. doi:10.36849/JDD.5080.

Effect of Fermentation Time on Antioxidant and Anti-Ageing Properties of Green Coffee Kombucha Ferments.

Kombucha, also known as the Manchurian mushroom, is a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, the so-called SCOBY. This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the ferments obtained from green coffee beans after different fermentation times with kombucha. Results for the ferments were compared to the green coffee extract that was not fermented. In this study, the antioxidant potential of obtained ferments was analyzed by assessing the scavenging of external and intracellular free radicals and the assessment of superoxide dismutase activity. Cytotoxicity of ferments on keratinocyte and fibroblast cell lines was assessed as well as anti-aging properties by determining their ability to inhibit the activity of collagenase and elastase enzymes. In addition, the composition of the obtained ferments and the extract was determined, as well as their influence on skin hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after application of samples on the skin. It has been shown that the fermentation time has a positive effect on the content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties. The highest values were recorded for the tested samples after 28 days of fermentation. After 14 days of the fermentation process, it was observed that the analyzed ferments were characterized by low cytotoxicity to keratinocytes and fibroblasts. On the other hand, the short fermentation time of 7 days had a negative effect on the properties of the analyzed ferments. The obtained results indicate that both green coffee extracts and ferments can be an innovative ingredient of cosmetic products.

Atopic Dermatitis and the Role of the Skin Microbiome in Choosing Prevention, Treatment, and Maintenance Options.

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin condition characterized by disturbed barrier function, skin inflammation, and cutaneous dysbiosis. Clinically, it manifests as chronic-recurrent xerosis, pruritus, and erythematous lesions. Its pathophysiology is complex, making the selection of appropriate treatment options a task. AIM: To share insights gained from a literature review and discussions with experts in dermatology on key factors related to the prevention, treatment, and management of AD in relation to the skin microbiome. METHODS: Results from an expert panel were summarized and discussed to provide updated recommendations for the treatment and maintenance of AD. RESULTS: Evidence supports a strategy for managing inflammatory skin diseases with a selenium-rich post-biotic thermal water and biomass containing moisturizer. The moisturizer helps to restore homeostasis of the skin, re-populate a diverse microbiome, encourage the growth of commensal bacteria, and improve barrier function and symptoms of AD. CONCLUSIONS: Normalization of skin microbiome diversity using a topical moisturizer containing post-biotic aqua and biomass may offer a valuable option for the treatment and maintenance of inflammatory skin diseases. Clinicians should discuss the benefits of this treatment in the context of a full AD management program that covers prevention, active treatment, and maintenance. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(10):935-940. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5393.

Effects of Colloidal Oatmeal Topical Atopic Dermatitis Cream on Skin Microbiome and Skin Barrier Properties.

Atopic dermatitis is characterized by dry, itchy, inflamed skin with a dysbiotic microbiome. In this clinical study (NCT03673059), we compared the effects of an eczema cream containing 1% colloidal oat and a standard moisturizer on the skin microbiome and skin barrier function of patients with mild to moderate eczema. Patients were randomly assigned to treatment with 1% colloidal oat eczema cream or a standard, non-fragranced daily moisturizer. Treatment lasted 14 days, followed by a 7-day regression period. Of 61 patients who completed the study, 30 received the 1% colloidal oat eczema cream and 31 received the standard moisturizer. At 14 days, the 1% colloidal oat eczema cream reduced mean Eczema Area Severity Index and Atopic Dermatitis Severity Index scores by 51% and 54%, respectively. Unlike treatment with the standard moisturizer, treatment with the 1% colloidal oat eczema cream was associated with trends towards lower prevalence of Staphylococcus species and higher microbiome diversity at lesion sites. The 1% colloidal oat eczema cream significantly improved skin pH, skin barrier function, and skin hydration from baseline to day 14, whereas the standard moisturizer improved hydration. Overall, the results demonstrate that topical products can have differing effects on the skin barrier properties and the microbiome. Importantly, we show that the use of a 1% colloidal oat eczema cream improves microbiome composition and significantly repairs skin barrier defects. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(5):   doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.4924.

Administration of Apple Polyphenol Supplements for Skin Conditions in Healthy Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

This clinical study was performed to evaluate the effects of continuous apple polyphenol (AP) administration on facial skin conditions and pigmentation induced by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation in healthy women participants. Participants (n = 65, age 20-39 years) were randomized to receive tablets containing AP (300 or 600 mg/day) or placebo in a double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Continuous administration of AP for 12 weeks significantly prevented UV irradiation induced skin pigmentation (erythema value, melanin value, L value), although a dose-dependent relationship was not clearly observed. In contrast, no significant differences were detected between the groups with regard to water content and trans-epidermal water loss. Our study demonstrated that APs and their major active compounds, procyanidins, have several health benefits. Here, we report that continuous administration of AP for 12 weeks alleviated UV irradiation induced skin pigmentation, when compared with placebo, in healthy women.

[Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)-decreasing Effect by Administration of Zinc in the Elderly People].

In recent years, it has become clear that zinc deficiency is closely related in several skin disorders. In elderly people, chronic itch and dry skin are common. In addition, the zinc concentrations are known to decrease with age. Therefore, we examined the beneficial effects of oral zinc supplementation on dry skin and itch in elderly people. Patients 65 years of age or older who visited the Jose Clinic (Odai-town, Mie Pref.) with serum zinc concentrations below 80 µg/dL were enrolled in the study (low zinc group). The participants were administered zinc acetate hydrate for 12 weeks from the start of the study, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum moisture content measurements, blood collection, and itch evaluation were performed every 4 weeks. Patients in the control group had serum zinc concentrations of ≥80 µg/dL (the normal zinc group). Results showed that TEWL was significantly higher in the low zinc group than in the normal zinc group, indicating that skin barrier function is impaired in the low zinc group. Serum zinc concentrations increased and TEWL decreased significantly over the 12 weeks of treatment. In addition, a negative correlation was observed between serum zinc concentrations and TEWL. Our results indicate that zinc supplementation is effective to improve the skin barrier function in elderly people.

Evaluation of moisturizing and irritation potential of sacha inchi oil.

OBJECTIVE: The moisturizing and irritation effects of sacha inchi oil were evaluated. STUDY DESIGN: The moisturizing effect on the skin was clinically assessed using a regression study design. Sacha inchi oil or olive oil (benchmark) was applied on the left or right lower leg of the subjects for 14 days followed by application discontinuation for 2 days. The TEWL, skin moisture content and dryness appearance were observed. METHODS: The fatty acid composition and characteristics of cold-pressed sacha inchi seed oil were determined. Skin tissues cultured ex vivo were used to assess primary irritation induced by the oil by examining keratin 1 expression and TNF-α and IL-1α release from the oil-applied tissues. RESULTS: The sacha inchi oil contained 42.3% linolenic acid and 39.5% linoleic acid. This oil's saponification, iodine, acid and peroxide values were 168.58 ± 1.55 mg KOH/g, 203.00 ± 0.04 g I2 /100 g, 1.68 ± 0.03 mg KOH/g, and 1.95 ± 0.26 mEq peroxide/kg, respectively. Compared with nontreated skin tissues, induced secretion of TNF-α and IL-1α and disruption of keratin 1 integrity in the stratum corneum layer were not found in the sacha inchi oil-treated tissues. In a clinical study with 13 volunteers, the improvement in moisture content and skin dryness appearance at the sacha inchi oil-applied site was comparable with that observed at the olive oil-applied site. CONCLUSIONS: The sacha inchi oil was mild to the skin and benefited dry skin.

Korean red ginseng water extract alleviates atopic dermatitis-like inflammatory responses by negative regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway in vivo.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Korean red ginseng is a Korean traditional medicine. In this study, we estimated the effects of Korean red ginseng water extract (RGE) in the 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB)-induced BALB/c mouse model which develops AD-like lesions. After RGE administration (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) to DNCB-induced mice there were improvements in the dermatitis score and skin pH, a decrease in trans-epidermal water loss, and improved skin hydration. RGE also significantly inhibited eosinophil infiltration, increased filaggrin protein levels, and decreased serum IgE levels, epidermal thickness, mast cell infiltration, and ceramidase release. Compared with that in DNCB-induced mice, RGE effectively decreased the mRNA expression levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), as well as the protein level of thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC). These inhibitory RGE effects are mediated by inhibiting the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 MAPK. Furthermore, we confirmed that RGE suppresses interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and TNF-α-induced expression of macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) and TARC genes in human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. Taken together, these results demonstrate that RGE may exert anti-atopic related to responses by suppression the expression of inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and chemokines via downregulation of MAPK signaling pathways, suggesting that RGE may be an effective therapeutic approach for prevention of AD-like disease.

Spirulina, Palmaria Palmata, Cichorium Intybus, and Medicago Sativa extracts in cosmetic formulations: an integrated approach of in vitro toxicity and in vivo acceptability studies.

Background/Aims: The selection of suitable raw materials in the cosmetic research and development is a key point, not only in order to obtain the expected results but also to avoid undesirable side effects. This study evaluated the in vitro toxicity potential of four different plant extracts and their in vivo acceptability studies. Methods: Spirulina, Palmaria palmata, Cichorium intybus and Medicago sativa extracts were analysed alone or in combination and added in cosmetic formulations. The in vitro toxicity evaluation, Hen's Egg Chorioallantoic Membrane Test (HET-CAM) and 3T3 NRU phototoxicity test were performed to evaluate in vitro potential ocular irritation and photo safety, respectively. Twenty subjects were enrolled in the acceptability studies, who were evaluated for the absence of harmful effects of the formulation by visual assessment and by transepidermal water loss, a biophysical technique, for 30 days. Results: HET-CAM assay showed that the studied extracts added to a gel-cream formulation had no irritant potential. In addition, the combination of Palmaria palmata, alfalfa and chicory extracts did not show phototoxic potential in vitro. Acceptability studies showed that the formulation containing the four extracts combined did not provoke any transepidermal water loss (TEWL) alteration, sensory irritation or erythema in the forearms for the period of analysis. Conclusion: The studied active ingredients, alone or in combination, present no cytotoxicity potential and when added to a gel-cream formulation had no irritant potential in vitro. These results predicting no harmful effects were confirmed in the acceptability tests, which showed no alteration on skin barrier function and no report of irritation perception of sign of erythema, suggesting the potential of these extracts for the development of safe cosmetic products.

Assessment of the moisturizing properties of a magnetic mask containing iron oxide particles.

BACKGROUND: Moisturizer is an important component of many cosmetic products. It helps to maintain the skin's integrity and its barrier functions. Recently, magnetic masks that seek to improve the properties of the skin have been developed and have become a new cosmetic trend. However, scientific proof of their stated properties is lacking. AIMS: To test whether iron oxide contained in a face mask with magnetic properties in an oily matrix with a freeze-dried aloe-vera base increases moisturization of the skin and improves skin barrier function. METHODS: Formulations were prepared containing an oil phase (67.3% wt.) and a solid phase (32.7% wt.). The moisturizing properties of the mask were tested by measuring in vivo electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, contact angle, and visual appearance. Meanwhile, human panel tests were performed to evaluate the sensory perception of potential users. RESULTS: The moisturizing effect of the iron oxide mask is clearly superior to that of the other tested samples. Water retention and low transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were evidenced for the iron oxide magnetic mask. Its occlusive action on the skin resulted in larger water contact angles and enhances the barrier effect. A favorable sensory perception on the part of the users was obtained for the iron oxide magnetic mask. CONCLUSION: The presence of iron oxide and the magnetic property of the mask enhance occlusive behavior, diminishing the TEWL. Sensory analysis of the iron oxide magnetic mask performed by human panel tests shows that they possess characteristics including neutral odor, and easy, pleasant-feeling application.

In vivo efficacy and properties of semisolid formulations containing panthenol.

BACKGROUND: Panthenol is an active substance used in dermatology to protect the health of the skin, to treat defects in the morphology of the stratum corneum. In cosmetology, hydrating, softening, and barrier function of panthenol are utilized. Detailed studies evaluating the efficacy of panthenol in cosmetic and pharmaceutical semisolid formulations and establishing its optimum concentration are needed. OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether an addition of 5-13 wt% panthenol in o/w and w/o emulsions increases hydration and supports the barrier properties of the skin. Rheological properties and sensory analysis of prepared formulations are supplemented. METHODS: Noninvasive instrumental methods in vivo were used. The hydration and barrier effect of semisolid formulations on the skin were observed for 48 hour; testing was conducted on 40 women. The effect was compared with formulations without any content of panthenol. The rheological and organoleptic properties of the formulations were evaluated. RESULTS: After applying either form of the formulations containing 7-11 wt% of panthenol hydration of the skin increased, transepidermal water loss decreased. pH of the skin shifted toward neutral after application of tested formulations. The rheological properties of the formulations were influenced by the type of vehicle, the amount of panthenol, and temperature. Sensory evaluation of both semisolid forms revealed statistically significant differences in o/w formulations with regard to spreadability. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of panthenol in an o/w and w/o semisolid formulations significantly enhances skin barrier repair and hydration of the stratum corneum. Better vehicle for the active substance as regards hydration proved o/w formulations.

Randomized Controlled Pilot Study of Dietary Supplementation with Turmeric or Herbal Combination Tablets on Skin Barrier Function in Healthy Subjects.

To compare the effects of turmeric tablets and turmeric-containing herbal combination tablets versus placebo on skin barrier function and sebum production by measuring facial sebum and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in healthy subjects. This study was a prospective, double-blinded, rater-blinded, randomized pilot study. Thirty-three generally healthy participants were recruited from the UC Davis Department of Dermatology clinic and the surrounding community from 2016 to 2017, 30 participants were enrolled, and 28 participants completed the study. Thirty individuals were recruited and randomized to the placebo, turmeric, or herbal combination tablet groups. The participants were instructed to take the intervention tablets by mouth twice daily for 4 weeks. Facial sebum production and TEWL were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks. Twenty-eight participants completed the study and there were no adverse events. There were no significant changes in sebum excretion rate in any group after 4 weeks compared with baseline. In the herbal combination tablet group, there was a significant decrease in TEWL (P = .003). No significant changes in TEWL were detected in the turmeric or placebo groups. Turmeric-containing herbal combination tablets significantly decreased TEWL after 4 weeks of twice-daily supplementation. There were no adverse events in any of the three intervention arms. Overall, our findings spark future interest in determining how oral supplementation with herbal formulations may improve skin barrier function and skin appearance, and potentially offer alternative or complementary treatment options.

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

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