Healio profiled a July Journal of Drugs in Dermatology study on the affordability of dermatologist-recommended skincare products for atopic dermatitis. The study, “Socioeconomic Disparities in Gentle Skin Care Access for Atopic Dermatitis: Affordability and Pharmacy Deserts,” was conducted by researchers from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and New York University Langone Health. Researchers found moisturizing lotions and liquid body soaps recommended by the National Eczema Association were on average more than twice the price of commonly purchased products across retailers surveyed. In addition, lower-income zip codes surveyed in Chicago and New York had significantly lower densities of retail stores, fewer hours of operation, and lower stock compared with higher-income zip codes. The researchers write that the study shows the need for advocacy to improve the affordability of gentle skincare products and to address pharmacy deserts.
Healio also highlighted a July JDD letter the editor on a multidisciplinary approach to skin bleaching and colorism. Warda Abdi, Medical College of Georgia, and Travis W. Blalock, MD, Emory University Department of Dermatology, wrote, “Multidisciplinary Impact and Ethical Response to Skin Bleaching and Colorism.” The authors contend that dermatology patients may continue using products that bleach the skin if they haven’t had any side effects. Therefore, the authors recommend a multidisciplinary approach to address the cultural background and family practices of skin bleaching. The approach involves professionals from several fields to address the cultural, psychological, social, and ethical factors involved. Tactics may include cognitive behavioral therapy to address body dysmorphic disorder and low self-esteem as well as alternative skin care recommendations from dermatologists. In addition, the authors write that religious leaders can play a role in addressing colorism, which is the preference for lighter over darker skin. The authors maintain that a collaborative effort will ensure that interventions are sensitive to a patient’s culture and more likely to result in lasting behavior change.
Dermatology Times mentioned an April JDD study in an article about Dr. Anthony Rossi’s skincare line, Dr. Rossi DERM MD. The study, “Clinical Utility of TRPV1 Modulation for Skincare Sensitivity,” conducted by Dr. Rossi and colleagues, evaluated a sea anemone biomimetic peptide, which is an antagonist of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) protein. TRPV1 is an emerging target for skin sensitivity, wound healing, aging, and inflammatory skin conditions. Results of a 4-week study showed significant improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and reductions in erythema and fine lines. Researchers believe peptides that target TRPV1 have the potential to serve as an alternative to retinoids and vitamin C, which would be especially helpful in people with sensitive skin.
