Artificial reduction in transepidermal water loss improves skin barrier function

Abstract

Differences between creams in terms of their effect on skin barrier function cannot be solely explained by their occlusive properties.

Effectiveness of skin protection creams in the prevention of occupational dermatitis: results of a randomized, controlled trial

“…Nevertheless, the TEWL, and in particular the relative changes of the TEWL, are enlisted in many publications as a suitable gauge for the skin barrier (i.e. Buraczewska et al 2007b). To our knowledge this is the Wrst large randomized, controlled trial to assess the eVect of skin protection and skin care creams under real working conditions.…”

Skin Barrier Responses to Moisturizers: Functional and Biochemical Changes

“…It was previously shown that occlusion of the skin with a semipermeable membrane, mimicking the occlusion effect by a moisturizer, decreased TEWL and susceptibility to an irritant, in a group wearing the membrane 23 h a day for 3 weeks, suggesting changes in skin barrier function [ 49 ] . However, there is no evidence of a correlation between the occlusive properties of creams and their effects on the skin barrier, determined as the degree of irritation after SLS exposure, since Complex cream and a lipid-rich cream show similar occlusive capacity [ 49 ] , but opposite effects on the skin barrier function [ 10,11,15,16,26 ] . Therefore, the detected difference in the effect on the skin barrier is more likely to have causes other than difference in occlusion between the creams.…”

Silicones as Nonocclusive Topical Agents

“…This common belief might have its roots in clinical trials, investigating barrier function strengthening and skin hydration properties of skin protectants containing silicone polymers [14,15], and of various products with dimethicone applied to prevent incontinence-associated dermatitis [16,17,18]. As indeed silicones improve the protectiveness and water resistance of such creams and lotions, these properties might be misinterpreted as occlusiveness [7,19].…”