RESUMO
Direct replacement of decreased ceramides in the stratum corneum can be efficacious for skin hydration, skin barrier function, and skin pH. Our study aimed to evaluate the 24-hr, 28-day, and 7-day post-moisturizing efficacy of ceramide-containing moisturizer in senile xerosis treatment. A split site, double-blinded, randomized, controlled study was conducted in 24 senile subjects (91.7% females, mean age 54.83 ± 5.45 years) with mild to moderate xerosis, who were randomized to receive ceramide-containing moisturizer or hydrophilic cream, daily applied on each side of the shin. A single application of ceramide-containing moisturizer increased skin hydration, while improving transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin pH for up to 24 hr, with statistically significant difference. After 28 days of twice-daily application, more significant improvement on skin hydration, barrier function, and skin pH was observed in those with ceramide-containing moisturizer at all-time points. At day 28, there was a statistically significant decrease of hemoglobin index, wrinkle, and texture on the ceramide treated side. The 7-day post-moisturizing efficacy on the ceramide treated side was superior for skin hydration, TEWL, skin pH, and wrinkle. Thus, the ceramide-containing moisturizer can be a novel promising treatment for senile xerosis.
