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Artificial reduction in transepidermal water loss improves skin barrier function
Article first published online: 6 JUN 2007
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2007.07965.x
Additional Information
How to Cite
Buraczewska, I., Broström, U. and Lodén, M. (2007), Artificial reduction in transepidermal water loss improves skin barrier function. British Journal of Dermatology, 157: 82–86. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2007.07965.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 15 JUN 2007
- Article first published online: 6 JUN 2007
- Accepted for publication 31 January 2007
- Abstract
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Keywords:
- gloves;
- irritation;
- occlusion;
- silicone membrane;
- sodium lauryl sulphate;
- susceptibility;
- transepidermal water loss
Summary
Background Artificial reduction of abnormal transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is considered to improve skin diseases associated with a defective barrier function. Treatment of the skin with moisturizers is also known to influence skin barrier function. Whether or not differences in occlusion between creams contribute to their effects on the skin barrier function is unknown.
Objectives To investigate the long-term effects of a semipermeable membrane on the skin barrier function in normal skin. In addition, the occlusive properties of two creams were studied.
Methods The study was randomized, controlled and evaluator-blind using measurement of TEWL and skin susceptibility to sodium lauryl sulphate as indicators of skin barrier function.
Results Coating of the skin with a silicone membrane for 23 h per day for 3 weeks improved skin barrier function, whereas no significant changes were found after using the membrane for 8 h per day.
Conclusions Differences between creams in terms of their effect on skin barrier function cannot be solely explained by their occlusive properties.