An Innovative Cream Improves Signs and Symptoms of Dermatoporosis in Patients Aged 65 and Over

Dermatoporosis describes thin, aged, and excessively fragile skin resulting from loss of the skin's protective mechanical function.¹ Other signs and symptoms include skin atrophy, purpura, pseudoscars, skin lacerations, and dissecting hematomas.² Progressive weakening of the skin barrier can lead to severe morbidity with clinical manifestations that may require hospitalization.³ Dermatoporosis is often seen on forearms, hands, presternal area, the pretibial area, and scalp.⁴ It accompanies skin aging and can be accelerated by factors such as photodamage, use of medications such as corticosteroids, and genetic susceptibility.⁵ These factors can trigger fibroblast senescence, which in turn leads to decreased production of elastin and collagen (with resultant negative effects on the extracellular matrix) and a reduction in hyaluronic acid in the skin.^3,4 The reduction in these extracellular matrix components results in a lack of support for cutaneous vessels rendering them susceptible to damage.^4,5 Symptoms of dermatoporosis can occur as early as 40 years old, but manifests fully between the ages of 70 and 90 years.⁴

Interventions for dermatoporosis should work holistically to repair and rebuild skin with a goal of preventing progression and improving skin integrity.² Optimally, they should provide support to fibroblasts and components of the extracellular matrix (collagen, elastin).^4,6 Consistent skincare regimens can help reduce the impact of aging by maintaining skin hydration, supporting a healthy skin barrier, preserving skin quality, and enhancing elasticity and smoothness.⁷

Recently, a new over-the-counter cream has been formulated with microdoses of mandelic acid and Centella asiatica.⁴ Mandelic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid exfoliant that normalizes skin pH, supports the skin’s lipid bilayer and