The usefulness of sebum check film for measuring the secretion of sebum

Patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) often present with dry skin, and the reduced secretion of sebum may be responsible for the impaired skin barrier function. A sebum check film enables the patient to self-evaluate the skin sebum content. This study compared the sebum check film with a sebumeter. The skin sebum content of the forehead was measured using a sebum check film and a sebumeter. The findings of the sebum content of healthy controls showed that the sebum dot fields on the sebum check film were significantly correlated with the sebum content measured using the sebumeter (r = 0.774, p < 0.001). In addition, the sebum fields on the sebum check film of AD patients (n = 26) were significantly less than those on the sebum check film of the controls (n = 30; p < 0.05). Furthermore, the analysis of the sebum fields on the sebum check film of the AD patients was significantly correlated with their sebum content findings that were obtained using a sebumeter (r = 0.592, p < 0.01). These findings indicate that the sebum check film is easy to use for measuring the sebum secretion and is suitable for self-checking the sebum contents by AD patients for daily skin care.     

Comparison of the skin biophysical parameters of Southeast Asia females: forehead–cheek and ethnic groups

Background Regional and ethnic (racial) differences in skin properties are well known. However, regional and racial studies are limited and have studied skin properties using an insufficient number of subjects and limited ethnic groups, except in the case of some recent studies. Objective The aim of this study was (1) to compare the skin biophysical parameter among the large scale of Southeast Asia females group and (2) to compare skin properties of the forehead and cheek. Methods We measured and compared seven skin biophysical parameters, such as skin hydration, sebum, skin pH, melanin index, erythema index, skin elasticity and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), of the forehead and cheek of a large population of Indonesian (n = 200), Vietnamese (n = 100) and Singaporean females (n = 97). Results At the point of site difference, there were significant differences in five biophysical parameters (skin hydration, skin pH, melanin index, erythema index and skin elasticity) in Indonesian females. In Vietnamese and Singaporean women, they were significant differences in five biophysical parameters (skin hydration, skin pH, melanin index, erythema index and TEWL). At the point of ethnic difference, the Indonesian women had the highest skin pH and melanin index between the different ethnic groups. Vietnamese women had the highest skin hydration and TEWL in the forehead, whereas Singaporean women had the highest skin elasticity. Conclusion The skin biophysical parameters are different between the forehead and cheek among Southeast Asian females. It also reveals that the biophysical parameters are different in same racial group.     

Einfluss von Babyschwimmen und Babypflegelotion auf die Hautbarriere von 3–6 Monate alten Säuglingen

Background: Skin care is important especially in infancy as the skin barrier matures during the first year of life. We studied the effects of baby swimming and baby lotion on the skin barrier function of infants. Subjects and methods: 44 infants aged 3–6 months were included in this mono‐center prospective study. The healthy infants swam four times and were randomized to group_L: baby lotion was applied after swimming all over the body and to group_WL: no lotion was used. Transepidermal water loss, stratum corneum hydration, skin‐pH and sebum were measured on four body regions using non‐invasive methods. Results: In group_L, sebum and pH remained stable. In group_WL, significant decrease in sebum was noted on forehead and thigh, and for pH on thigh and buttock. Group_L had fewer infants with at least one adverse event compared to group_WL. Location‐dependent gender differences in skin barrier function were observed. Conclusions: Reaction of skin barrier function to baby swimming and skin care regimens showed typical regional variability between body areas. Influence of baby lotion on skin barrier and gender differences in skin functional parameters were demonstrated for the first time in healthy infants participating in baby swimming.     

Skin hydration and transepidermal water loss in patients with a history of sulfur mustard contact: a case–control study

Background   Skin lesions are among the most common complications of contact with sulfur mustard.
Objective   This study was aimed to measure skin water content and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in patients with a history of sulfur mustard contact.
Methods   Three hundred ten male participants were included in this study: 87 (28.1%) sulfur mustard–exposed patients with current skin lesions (group 1), 71 (22.9%) sulfur mustard–exposed patients without skin lesions (group 2), 78 (25.2%) patients with dermatitis (group 3) and 74 (23.8%) normal controls (group 4) The water content and TEWL of skin was measured at four different locations of the body: forehead, suprasternal, palm and dorsum of hand. Nonparametric statistical tests (Kruskal–Wallis) were used to compare the four groups, and P  < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results   The mean age of participants were 44.0 ± 6.7, 41.9 ± 5.9, 43.8 ± 9.3 and 44.8 ± 8.9 years in groups 1 to 4, respectively ( P  = 0.146). Xerosis, post-lesional hyperpigmentation and lichenification were significantly more common in either sulfur mustard–exposed participants or non-exposed participants with dermatitis ( P  < 0.05). Skin hydration was higher in subjects with sulfur mustard contact than in non-injured participants ( P  < 0.05) in the dorsum and palm of hands and forehead. TEWL was significantly higher in participants only in suprasternal area and dorsum of hand.
Conclusion   Contact with sulfur mustard agent can alter biophysical properties of the skin-especially the function of stratum corneum as a barrier to water loss-several years after exposure.

Conflicts of interest

None declared.     

Effects of moisturizing skincare on skin barrier function and the prevention of skin problems in 3‐month‐old infants: A randomized controlled trial

An effective newborn skincare protocol has not been established. We aimed to evaluate the effects of moisturizing skincare, including using lotion and reducing routine bathing. Our hypothesis was that moisturizing skincare would improve skin barrier function. This randomized controlled trial included 227 healthy Asian newborns between 1 week and 3 months old. We compared moisturizing skincare (bathing every 2 days and using lotion daily; intervention, n = 113) to daily bathing without lotion (control, n = 114). We assessed the skin barrier function (transepidermal water loss [TEWL], stratum corneum hydration [SCH], skin pH and sebum secretion) as a primary outcome at 3 months old. We also assessed the incidence of skin problems according to parents’ diary reports. Compared with the control, the intervention group had a lower face TEWL (mean ± standard deviation, 14.69 ± 7.38 vs 17.08 ± 8.26 g/m² per h, P = 0.033), higher face SCH (60.38 ± 13.66 vs 53.52 ± 14.55, P = 0.001) and higher body SCH (58.89 ± 12.96 vs 53.02 ± 10.08, P < 0.001). Compared with the control, newborns in the intervention group had significantly lower rates of diaper dermatitis between birth and 1 month old (6.3% vs 15.9%, P = 0.022), and tended to have lower rates of body skin problems between 1 and 3 months (42.1% vs 55.2%, P = 0.064). Moisturizing skincare was effective for improving skin barrier function and preventing newborns’ diaper dermatitis. The results of our study may help parents make informed decisions about newborn skincare.     

痤疮患者皮肤生理功能测定

目的 探讨痤疮患者面部皮肤生理功能的特点，以期指导痤疮患者的治疗。方法 选取受试对象120例，试验组为痤疮患者60例，其中男20例，女40例，平均年龄23.4岁；对照组为健康志愿者60例，其中男20例，女40例，平均年龄25.1岁。运用无创性皮肤生理功能测试仪，测量受试者的面颊及T区（油脂分泌旺盛区域）皮肤油脂、面颊皮肤弹性和水分。结果 试验组面部T区油脂量为（199.98 ± 58.21） μg/cm2，健康对照组为（117.55 ± 63.16） μg/cm2，两组差异有统计学意义（t = 7.34，P < 0.05）。试验组面颊油脂量为（154.45 ± 55.06） μg/cm2，健康对照组为（87.50 ± 47.36） μg/cm2，两组差异有统计学意义（t = 7.14，P < 0.05）。试验组皮肤弹性（0.7931 ± 0.0755R）与健康对照组（0.7882 ± 0.0498R）比较，差异无统计学意义（P > 0.05），试验组皮肤水分（30.75% ± 3.87%）与健康对照组（30.94% ± 2.91%）比较，差异也无统计学意义（P > 0.05）。结论 痤疮患者颜面皮肤油脂分泌过多。     

Methylisothiazolinone,an emerging allergen in cosmetics?

Background: A few cases on primary sensitization by, and occupational contact dermatitis from, methylisothiazolinone in paints and glues have been published. In cosmetics, methylisothiazoline (MI) is permitted in a concentration of 100 p.p.m., while 15 p.p.m. for the mixture of methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazoline (MCI/MI). Objectives: To present cases of sensitization to, and allergic contact dermatitis from, cosmetic products containing methylisothiazolinone only. Patients, Materials, and Methods: Seven patients with suspected contact dermatitis – six of them with (peri‐)anal lesions and one with facial dermatitis – were patch tested with the baseline series, the own products exposed to, cosmetic ingredients, as well as with methylisothiazolinone 1000 p.p.m. and MCI/MI 200 p.p.m. Results: The patients with anal lesions had become sensitized by wipes for intimate hygiene, and one patient with facial dermatitis by a make‐up remover, all containing methylisothiazolinone only. Three out of seven cases would have been missed if only MCI/MI 100 p.p.m., as present in the baseline series, had been tested. Conclusion: The inclusion of methylisothiazolinone as a preservative in cosmetics might not represent the solution to the problem of allergic contact dermatitis from isothiazolinones, since it leads to primary sensitization.     

The assessment of the effects of the combination of microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling in the therapy of seborrhoeic skin with visible symptoms of acne punctata

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess objectively the effects of the combination of corundum microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling in the therapy of seborrheic skin with visible symptoms of acne punctata.

Material and methods: The study involved a group of nine women. A series of six treatments with the combination of microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling were performed within facial skin at 10–14 days intervals. Corneometric measurements examining skin hydration level and sebumetric measurements analyzing skin sebum level were made before the series of treatments and after second, fourth and sixth procedure in five facial areas. Clinical assessment of the efficacy of the therapy was performed on the basis of photographic documentation (Fotomedicus). Anonymous questionnaires were used in order to evaluate patients’ satisfaction rate.

Results: Statistically significant improvement in skin sebum level was observed in all examined areas (forehead p = 0.002; nose p = 0.001, chin p = 0.01, left cheek p = 0.009, right cheek p = 0.007). In case of skin hydration, significant improvement was found only in the area of chin (p = 0.03). 78% of participants estimated that the improvement was in the range of 55–70%, while 22% of participants of 75–100%. The reduction in the amount and visibility of comedones and pimples were demonstrated on the basis of questionnaire and photographic documentation.

Conclusions: Combined microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling treatments improve the condition of seborrheic skin.     

Investigation of the mechanism of action of 2% fusidic acid lotion in the treatment of acne vulgaris

We describe the results of a single-centre, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, parallel group study on the quantitative effects of 2% fusidic acid lotion (Fucidin® lotion) in facial acne vulgaris. The trial was completed by 52 patients aged 15–25 years with mild to moderate acne who had been randomized to either Fucidin® Lotion (n= 25) or its base (n= 27). Primary outcome measures included colony counts of Propionibacterium acnes and microcoecaceae and measurements of skin surface lipid free tatty acids and sebum excretion rate. Clinical assessment was based on the acne grade, count of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions and evidence of a primary irritant dermatitis. There was a variable hut gradual reduction in lesion counts with the maximum improvement at 12 weeks for inflamed lesions, where the reduction was 19·9% for fusidic acid and 247% for the placebo. The non-inflamed lesions decreased by 10·8% in the fusidic acid group and increased by 15·9% in the placebo group; this difference was not statistically significant. Although the fusidic acid reduced the micrococcaceae count by 1 log cycle, inferring adequate compliance, there was no reduction in the counts of P. acnes, surface free fatty acids or sebum excretion rate. This study has failed to explain the mechanism of action of topical fusidic acid.     

Fluorescence diagnostic imaging in patients with acne

Background: Orange‐red fluorescence in the follicle openings, induced by ultraviolet A light, originates from porphyrins, the metabolic products of Propionibacteria acnes. Purpose: To investigate the relationship of orange‐red follicular fluorescence with the severity of acne and the amount of sebum secretion. Methods: Twenty‐five volunteers were included. The severity of acne was rated on a 4‐point scale. The casual sebum level was measured using a Sebumeter and the follicular fluorescence was determined using the camera Visiopor. Results: Casual sebum level and the intensity of fluorescence (percentage of the area and number of orange‐red spots) were higher at the T zone than at the U zone in all patients regardless of their skin type. Sebum amount and area of fluorescence spots were significantly negative in correlation with the clinical grade of acne. There was a significant positive correlation between the orange‐red fluorescence and the casual sebum level. Conclusion: The orange‐red fluorescence showed stronger correlation with the presence of non‐inflammatory acne lesions (comedones) and high sebum amount than the presence of inflammatory acne lesions (pustules) and low sebum amount. The fluorescence diagnostic imaging could be useful in the objective evaluation and monitoring of treatment efficacy in subjects with acne‐prone skin and patients with acne.     

Protective effects of a day/night dual-antioxidant serum on skin: A randomized,regimen-controlled study in Chinese women exposed to air pollution

Background

Chronic exposure to air pollution can negatively affect skin health.

Aims

To assess the efficacy of the LUMIVIVE^® System (LVS), a skincare system consisting of individual day and night serums, in Chinese women exposed to air pollution.

Patients/Methods

In this single-center, vehicle-controlled study, eligible females (mean age, 49.02 years) were randomized 1:1 to treatment group (LVS plus basic moisturizer) or control group (basic moisturizer). Skin color, sebum content, barrier function, elasticity, and texture were measured at baseline and at each follow-up visit (days 28, 56, and 84). Air pollution parameters were collected throughout the study.

Results

Air pollution levels, including PM_2.5 and NO₂, were consistently high during the study. The treatment group showed significantly higher skin color L* (p ≤ 0.0001) and lower a* values (p ≤ 0.05) at all follow-up visits compared with the control group, indicating lower skin pigmentation and redness, respectively. Skin color L* and a* values remained unchanged over time for the control group but were significantly different at all follow-up visits compared to baseline (p ≤ 0.0001 and p ≤ 0.05, respectively) for the treatment group. There was an increasing trend for sebum content in the control group, which was not observed in the treatment group. Both groups showed improvements over time in other skin physiology parameters.

Conclusions

The current analysis demonstrates the efficacy of LVS plus basic moisturizer compared with basic moisturizer alone to reduce skin pigmentation and redness, as well as to mitigate sebum production, in Chinese women exposed to air pollution.     

Effect of oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid on skin,nails and hair in women with photodamaged skin

Chronic exposure of the skin to sunlight causes damage to the underlying connective tissue with a loss of elasticity and firmness. Silicon (Si) was suggested to have an important function in the formation and maintenance of connective tissue. Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (“ch-OSA”) is a bioavailable form of silicon which was found to increase the hydroxyproline concentration in the dermis of animals. The effect of ch-OSA on skin, nails and hair was investigated in a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study. Fifty women with photodamaged facial skin were administered orally during 20 weeks, 10 mg Si/day in the form of ch-OSA pellets (n=25) or a placebo (n=25). Noninvasive methods were used to evaluate skin microrelief (forearm), hydration (forearm) and mechanical anisotropy (forehead). Volunteers evaluated on a virtual analog scale (VAS, “none=0, severe=3”) brittleness of hair and nails. The serum Si concentration was significantly higher after a 20-week supplementation in subjects with ch-OSA compared to the placebo group. Skin roughness parameters increased in the placebo group (Rt:+8%; Rm: +11%; Rz: +6%) but decreased in the ch-OSA group (Rt: −16%; Rm: −19%; Rz: −8%). The change in roughness from baseline was significantly different between ch-OSA and placebo groups for Rt and Rm. The difference in longitudinal and lateral shear propagation time increased after 20 weeks in the placebo group but decreased in the ch-OSA group suggesting improvement in isotropy of the skin. VAS scores for nail and hair brittleness were significantly lower after 20 weeks in the ch-OSA group compared to baseline scores. Oral intake of ch-OSA during the 20 weeks results in a significant positive effect on skin surface and skin mechanical properties, and on brittleness of hair and nails. An erratum to this article can be found at     

Objective and non‐invasive evaluation of photorejuvenation effect with intense pulsed light treatment in Asian skin

Background Intense pulsed light (IPL) has been widely used for photorejuvenation. Although previous literature has shown clinical effectiveness of IPL treatments on cutaneous photoaging, the associated changes in the biophysical properties of the skin following IPL treatments have not been fully elucidated. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in skin biophysical properties in patients with photoaging after IPL treatments, using non‐invasive, objective skin measuring devices. Patients and methods A total of 26 Korean women with facial dyschromias underwent three sessions of IPL treatment at 4‐week intervals. Outcome assessments included standardized photography, global evaluation by blinded investigators, patients’ self‐assessment and objective measurements of colour (Mexameter MX18, Chromatometer), elasticity (Cutometer), roughness (Visiometer), sebum (Sebumeter) and skin hydration (Corneometer). Results Intense pulsed light treatments produced a 15% decrease in the size of representative pigmented lesions (P < 0.05). Patients’ self‐assessment revealed that 84% and 58% of subjects considered their pigmented lesions and wrinkles were improved respectively. Objective colorimetric measurement demonstrated significant improvements following IPL treatments that were most remarkable after one session of IPL. Moreover, skin elasticity showed significant improvements at the end of the study. Skin wrinkles as measured using Visiometer showed a mild improvement without statistical significance. Sebum secretion and water content of skin remained unchanged. Conclusions Intense pulsed light provided significant improvement in the appearance of facial pigmented lesions in Korean patients. These effects appeared to be more remarkable in improving pigmentation, skin tone and elasticity.     

Skin–textile friction and skin elasticity in young and aged persons

Background/purpose: The mechanical properties of human skin are known to change with ageing, rendering skin less resistant to friction and shear forces, as well as more vulnerable to wounds. Until now, only few and contradictory results on the age-dependent friction properties of skin have been reported. This study has investigated in detail the influence of age on the friction of human skin against textiles.
Methods: In vivo skin-friction measurements on a force plate were combined with skin analyses concerning elasticity, hydration, pH value and sebum content. Thirty-two young and 28 aged persons rubbed their volar forearm in a reciprocating motion against various textiles on the force plate, using defined normal loads and sliding velocities, representing clinically relevant contact conditions.
Results: Mean friction coefficients ranged from 0.30 ± 0.04 (polytetrafluoroethylene) to 0.43 ± 0.04 (cotton/polyester). No significant differences in the friction properties of skin were found between the age groups despite skin elasticity being significantly lower in the aged persons. Skin hydration was significantly higher in the elderly, whereas no significant differences were observed in either skin pH value or sebum content.
Conclusion: Adhesion is usually assumed to be the dominant factor in skin friction, but our observations imply that deformation is also an important factor in the friction of aged skin. In the elderly, lower skin elasticity and skin turgor are associated with more pronounced skin tissue displacements and greater shear forces during frictional contact, emphasizing the importance of friction reduction in wound-prevention programmes.     

Degreasing method for the seborrheic areas with respect to regaining sebum excretion rate to casual level

Background/aims: Sebum excreted from the seborrheic glands keeps the skin surface subtle and moist. Before determining the activity of seborrheic glands, the skin surface must be degreased to remove contamination but without provoking sebum excretion. The purpose of this study was to set up a standardised degreasing procedure for various seborrheic areas in different skin types. The method will take day‐to‐day variations into account with respect to the kinetics of refatting. Methods: The Sebumeter^® from Courage+Khazaka is used to quantify the sebum excretion. Day‐to‐day variations were measured on the forehead in groups of 12 volunteers on 2 consecutive days. The degreasing procedure was investigated by individual cleaning with alcohol compared to washing with a mild detergent followed by wipes with alcohol on the forehead. The degree of refatting was monitored until 3 h after defatting on seborrheic areas: the forehead, cheek, nose, chin and upper back. Results: There was no statistical significant difference in the variation from day to day (P<0.05), although a change in the individual skin types was observed. An individual difference in the number of alcoholic wipes needed to degrease the forehead was seen. Washing followed by several repetitions of alcoholic wipes was not sufficient for the forehead, chin and nose (P>0.05). For the cheek and upper back, it was sufficient to wash with soap (P<0.05). The time from degreasing the skin until the sebum output reached the casual level was 2 h (P>0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) indicates that individual skin types return to casual level after defatting. Conclusion: There was no statistically significant day‐to‐day variation using the Sebumeter^®. We ended up with different degreasing procedures in different seborrheic areas. Washing gently with a detergent solution and then performing three wipes with alcohol was optimal for degreasing the forehead, nose and chin. For the cheek and upper back, it was sufficient to use a mild soap. Casual level was reached after 2 h in all seborrheic areas, irrespective of level of oiliness.     

Dietary sphingolipids improve skin barrier functions via the upregulation of ceramide synthases in the epidermis

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotic organisms and are significant components in foods. It has been reported that treatment with sphingolipids prevents colon cancer, improves skin barrier function and suppresses inflammatory responses. However, the mechanisms for those effects of dietary sphingolipids are not well understood. In this study, to investigate the effects of dietary glucosylceramide (GluCer) and sphingomyelin (SM) on skin function, we characterized the recovery of skin barrier function and the change in sphingolipid metabolism‐related enzymes in the epidermis using a special Mg‐deficient diet–induced atopic dermatitis‐like skin and tape‐stripping damaged skin murine models. Our results show that dietary GluCer and SM accelerate the recoveries of damaged skin barrier functions. Correspondingly, dietary sphingolipids significantly upregulated the expression of ceramide synthases 3 and 4 in the epidermis of the atopic dermatitis‐like skin model (P < 0.05). In the case of cultured cells, the expression of ceramide synthases 2‐4 in normal human foreskin keratinocytes was significantly upregulated by treatment with 0.001–0.1 μm sphingoid bases (sphinganine, sphingosine and trans‐4,cis‐8‐sphingadienine) (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the effects of dietary sphingolipids might be due to the activation of ceramide synthesis in the skin, rather than the direct reutilization of dietary sphingolipids. Our findings provide a novel insight into the mechanisms of the skin barrier improving effect and a more comprehensive understanding of dietary sphingolipids.     

Comparison of cheek and forehead regions by bioengineering methods in women with different self-reported "cosmetic skin types"

Background/aims: Understanding structural and functional differences between facial areas is necessary for the formulation of cosmetics and dermatological preparations well tailored to the skin's biophysical characteristics. The objective of the present study was to compare biophysical parameters on malar and frontal facial areas of healthy women classified according to self-reported cosmetic skin types.
Methods: The study population comprised 253 women aged from 20 to 50 years who did not display any signs of dermatological disease. Women declared spontaneously their cosmetic skin type. Skin capacitance, sebum casual level, skin temperature, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin colour and relief were assessed on cheeks and forehead in a controlled environment.
Results: All biophysical parameters showed statistically significant differences between the two zones. Mean a* chromametric values and TEWL values were significantly higher on cheeks. In contrast, mean b * chromametric values and sebum casual levels showed the highest values on the forehead. Moreover, skin capacitance, temperature, roughness and L .* chromametric value showed minor, while statistically significant, differences between the two zones. With marginal exceptions, the differences between the facial zones for each biophysical parameter remained statistically significant, irrespective of self-reported skin type.
Conclusion: Biophysical parameter mean values differ between frontal and malar zones regardless of self-reported skin type. Except for the elevated sebum casual levels in "greasy" and "combined" skin, no single or combined biophysical characteristics could be linked to any of the self-reported skin types. Furthermore our data confirm that in contrast to the common belief that "dry" skin is associated with reduced sebum production, sebum levels in women declaring to have "dry" skin and those declaring to have "normal" skin were not found to be different.     

Correlations between human skin bacteria and skin lipids

Correlation matrices were constructed for various human skin variables (propionibacteria, micrococcaceae, sebum excretion rate, percentage of free fatty acids and free fatty acid production rate). Two independent populations were studied (n= 87 and n= 103), and a subpopulation (n= 30) was investigated on three occasions at intervals of 1 month. In this way consistently high correlations could be differentiated from ‘fortuitous’ correlations. Propionibacteria versus micrococcaceae showed the highest correlation coefficient and propionibacteria versus percentage free fatty acids was also highly correlated. A scatter diagram indicated a relationship between the lower threshold of microbial density and sebum excretion rate. An explanation based on relative duct and gland size is presented.     

Periorbital dermatitis--a recalcitrant disease: causes and differential diagnoses

Background Periorbital dermatitis is common and frequently recalcitrant to treatment. Due to the exposed and visible location, patients often suffer severely from periorbital dermatitis. Objectives To determine the frequency and causes of periorbital dermatitis including contact sensitizers. Methods We investigated two cohorts of patients (Erlangen and IVDK without Erlangen) between 1999 and 2004. Results The differences between the two cohorts with periorbital dermatitis [Department of Dermatology at University Hospital Erlangen (n = 88) and the German Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) collective (n = 2035)] were determined by the MOAHLFA (male, occupational dermatosis, atopic eczema, hand dermatitis, leg dermatitis, facial dermatitis, age ≥ 40 years) index. Statistically significant factors for periocular eczema are female sex, atopic skin diathesis and age ≥ 40 years. In both cohorts allergic contact dermatitis was the main cause of periorbital eczema (Erlangen 44·3%, IVDK 31·6%), followed by periorbital atopic dermatitis (Erlangen 25%, IVDK 14·1%), airborne dermatitis (Erlangen 10·2%, IVDK 1·9%), irritant contact dermatitis (Erlangen 9·1%, IVDK 7·6%), periorbital rosacea (Erlangen 4·5%, IVDK 2·2%), allergic conjunctivitis (Erlangen 2·3%, IVDK included in ‘others’) and psoriasis (Erlangen 2·3%, IVDK included in ‘others’). The most relevant allergens/allergen sources inducing periorbital eczema were consumers’ products (facial cream, eye shadow and ophthalmic therapeutics) (31%), fragrance mix (19%), balsam of Peru (10%), thiomersal (10%) and neomycin sulphate (8%); 12·5% of patients with allergic periocular dermatitis could be exclusively elucidated by testing patients’ own products. Conclusions Our data demonstrate the multiplicity of causes for periorbital eczematous disease manifestation, which requires patch testing of standard trays as well as consumers’ products to elucidate the relevant contact sensitization.     

Characterization of a live Cutibacterium acnes subspecies defendens strain XYCM42 and clinical assessment as a topical regimen for general skin health and cosmesis

Background

When formulating topical products to treat skin diseases and addressing general skin health and cosmesis, most of the focus has traditionally been placed on how any given ingredient may impact the structure, function, and health of human skin elements. However, recent research is beginning to highlight the importance of the skin microbiome in relation to certain skin conditions and general cosmesis. Cutibacterium acnes is one of the most prolific skin-specific bacterial species. Research has shown that the species is divided into subspecies, some of which are thought to be beneficial to the skin. This paper aims to determine the efficacy of strainXYCM42, a C. acnes subspecies defendens derived strain designed to improve the health and appearance of the skin.

Methods

In vitro studies were performed on human keratinocyte and fibroblast monolayers, human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and skin explants to elucidate the effects of live XYCM42 cells and their ferment on human skin cells and tissues. Subsequently, clinical studies were performed using XYCM42-based topical regimens designed to deliver and support the engraftment of live XYCM42 cells onto subjects' skin. Two studies were performed, a 3-week pilot study (n = 10) and a 8-week pivotal study (n = 121). In the latter, 32 subjects were enrolled for an in-clinic portion for efficacy evaluation, with clinic visits occurring at Baseline, Week 1, Week 4, and Week 8.

Results

In vitro data suggest that XYCM42 and its ferment filtrate have potential to provide benefits to the skin via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and select antimicrobial activities. Clinical observation demonstrated that a XYCM42-containing regimen supports a healthy skin environment, promotes increased skin hydration, decreases erythema, calms the skin, and regulates sebum production.

Conclusion

These studies provide further evidence that specific strains of C. acnes, such as XYCM42, have a more beneficial function regarding skin health and appearance than was previously thought. Appropriate use of formulations derived from symbiotic strains within the skin microbiome can support the development of novel, beneficial topicals.