INTRODUCTION
Atopic dermatitis (AD), rosacea, and cosmetic intolerance syndrome (CIS) are clinically associated with disrupted skin barrier function (eg, increased transepidermal water loss [TEWL]) and skin sensitivity that manifests as dryness, redness, irritation, and inflammation, as well as disruption of lipid synthesis and metabolism, filaggrin mutations, and decreased levels of Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), all of which are critical for proper skin hydration and barrier integrity/function.1,2 Lightweight topical moisturizers that gently support healthy lipid, protein, and NMF levels and strengthen the skin barrier thus represent highly relevant adjunctive care for patients experiencing common symptoms of these skin diseases worldwide. However, many traditional cream formulations aiming to reduce skin sensitivity and irritation related to AD, rosacea, or CIS contain high levels of emollients and occlusives that can be comedogenic and leave heavy, greasy residues,3 resulting in poor daily usage compliance.4,5
Evaluated herein is a novel, lightweight, non-comedogenic cream moisturizer containing epidermal lipids and NMF compounds to deliver immediate, long-lasting skin barrier improvement, reduce signs of irritation, and improve skin tolerability in patients with AD, rosacea, or CIS. The formula contains free fatty acids, cholesterol, and ceramide N-(tetracosanoyl)-phytosphingosine, which are essential, prominent epidermal lipids naturally present in the skin barrier6-8; they mimic the skin barrier by creating an occlusive yet lightweight film on the skin surface9 to help reduce TEWL and improve skin texture.10 Hyaluronic acid (HA), glycerin, amino acids, and electrolytes included in the formula as NMF attract/bind moisture to enhance skin surface hydration. Furthermore, the formula’s lipophilic and hydrophilic components are stabilized by fatty acid esters that form biomimetic liquid crystals (or liquid crystalline phases) that support skin hydration. They also assemble in lamellar bilayers, similar to the stratum corneum’s lipid structure, and help strengthen the skin barrier by reducing TEWL.6,7,11-13
This manuscript describes preclinical and clinical studies investigating the novel cream moisturizer’s biological effects, skin tolerability, skin barrier improvements, and visible skin benefits. Moreover, clinical research demonstrates relevant benefits and acceptability for patients with AD, rosacea, or CIS.
Evaluated herein is a novel, lightweight, non-comedogenic cream moisturizer containing epidermal lipids and NMF compounds to deliver immediate, long-lasting skin barrier improvement, reduce signs of irritation, and improve skin tolerability in patients with AD, rosacea, or CIS. The formula contains free fatty acids, cholesterol, and ceramide N-(tetracosanoyl)-phytosphingosine, which are essential, prominent epidermal lipids naturally present in the skin barrier6-8; they mimic the skin barrier by creating an occlusive yet lightweight film on the skin surface9 to help reduce TEWL and improve skin texture.10 Hyaluronic acid (HA), glycerin, amino acids, and electrolytes included in the formula as NMF attract/bind moisture to enhance skin surface hydration. Furthermore, the formula’s lipophilic and hydrophilic components are stabilized by fatty acid esters that form biomimetic liquid crystals (or liquid crystalline phases) that support skin hydration. They also assemble in lamellar bilayers, similar to the stratum corneum’s lipid structure, and help strengthen the skin barrier by reducing TEWL.6,7,11-13
This manuscript describes preclinical and clinical studies investigating the novel cream moisturizer’s biological effects, skin tolerability, skin barrier improvements, and visible skin benefits. Moreover, clinical research demonstrates relevant benefits and acceptability for patients with AD, rosacea, or CIS.
