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A plant oil‐containing pH 4 emulsion improves epidermal barrier structure and enhances ceramide levels in aged skin
Author(s) -
Blaak J.,
Dähnhardt D.,
DähnhardtPfeiffer S.,
Bielfeldt S.,
Wilhelm K.P.,
Wohlfart R.,
Staib P.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
international journal of cosmetic science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.532
H-Index - 62
eISSN - 1468-2494
pISSN - 0142-5463
DOI - 10.1111/ics.12374
Subject(s) - stratum corneum , transepidermal water loss , ceramide , dry skin , chemistry , emulsion , barrier function , intracellular , food science , biochemistry , biophysics , dermatology , medicine , biology , pathology , microbiology and biotechnology , apoptosis
Abstract Objective Xerosis is a serious problem among the very old. It is a dermatological challenge caused by significant alterations in stratum corneum ( SC ) function and structure. Two negative changes in aged skin are (i) the enhanced skin surface pH and (ii) the altered SC lipid content, composition and ordering. Methods Therefore, we investigated the way in which an acidic skin care product with different plant oils affects SC function, structure and lipid profile in older subjects with dry skin. Before and after a 3‐week application period, different biophysical measurements were performed: transepidermal water loss, SC hydration and skin surface pH . In addition, the SC lipid matrix was evaluated by analysis of the intercellular lipid lamellae and the SC lipid profile. Results After treatment, a significant increase in lipid lamellae in the intercellular space of the SC was observed in the area treated with the test product compared to the untreated area. Furthermore, the ceramide level was found to be increased, although ceramides were not provided by the acidic test formulation. Conclusion In summary, topical application of a pH 4.0 product containing plant oils improves epidermal barrier formation and SC lipid ordering and ratio in aged dry skin.