The evidence-based efficacy of two new preparations for the interval and acute treatment of atopic dermatitis is based on a targeted influence on the skin barrier. A special combination of different ingredients with polyvalent effect leads to significant symptom and relapse reduction.
Impaired barrier function and altered immune response are key pathophysiological factors in atopic dermatitis. These factors interact in that exogenous factors can penetrate the skin more easily when the protective mantle of the epidermis is inadequate, thereby provoking eczema flare-ups on the one hand and further weakening the skin barrier on the other, which increases vulnerability to irritants.
Extension of thrust-free intervals
It has been found that the barrier function of the skin is measurable by physiological parameters and can be specifically influenced, according to Prof. Margitta Worm, MD, University Medicine Berlin (D) at the dermapraxis Berlin event [1]. This principle underlies two newly launched preparations for basic and interval care. The new Eucerin® AtopiControl Balm (Tab. 1) [2], designed for interval treatment, contains an active ingredient complex of Licochalcone A, ceramides and shea butter. Licochalcone decreases the release of inflammatory mediators, resulting in skin calming and a reduction in erythema. Skin-related ceramides counteract dryness on the one hand and promote the regeneration of the skin’s barrier function on the other. NMF (Natural Moisturing Factors) and shea butter are ingredients with moisturizing effect. In a randomized placebo-controlled trial published in 2018, it was shown that treatment with an emulsion based on it (Licochalcone A, omega-6 fatty acids, ceramide 3, glycerol) resulted in a significant reduction in relapse rate as well as an improvement in homeostasis compared to placebo (water-in-oil emulsion) [3]. Study participants were adults (n=26) with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in clinical remission who did not use steroid-containing products during the study period. Recurrence was defined as the appearance of erythema on the arm. The study duration was 12 weeks, the verum resp. Placebo substances were applied to one arm twice daily (review 1) [3].
“You can reduce the risk of recurrence with regular basic care,” summarized the speaker [1]. Prolongation of relapse-free intervals corresponds to one of the overriding treatment goals in atopic dermatitis.
Proven relief of itching
For the therapy of acute relapses, the ingredient menthoxypropanediol (MPD) has proven to be effective. It is an itch-superimposing cold mediator, which counteracts acute symptoms [4]. This is the basis for the new Eucerin® AtopiControl anti-itch spray [5], which leads to relief of itching within minutes. In a study of 22 patients with atopic dermatitis, treatment with an acute care cream containing the active ingredient MPD for 7 days resulted in a significant reduction in pruritus symptoms after only 2 minutes, and 90% reported a noticeable reduction in itching by minute 15 [6]. The highly effective MPD has already proven its worth in Eucerin® AtopiControl Acute Care Cream, which, in addition to itch-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, also leads to a reduction in redness and strengthens the skin barrier.
Source: Beiersdorf AG
Literature:
- Worm M: On the role of allergens and skin barrier in triggering atopic dermatitis. Slide presentation. Prof. Margitta Worm, MD, University Medicine Berlin, dermapraxis Berlin, Sept. 14, 2019.
- Eucerin® AtopiControl, https://int.eucerin.com/products/atopicontrol/balm, last accessed Nov. 13, 2019.
- Angelova-Fischer I, et al: Stand-alone Emollient Treatment Reduces Flares After Discontinuation of Topical Steroid Treatment in Atopic Dermatitis: A Double-blind, Randomized, Vehicle-controlled, Left-right Comparison Study. Acta Derm Venereol 2018; 98(5): 517-523. doi: 10.2340/00015555-2882.
- Roggenkamp D, et al: Menthoxypropanediol inhibits nerve growth factor-induced nerve fiber sprouting in coculture models of sensory neurons and skin cells. Experimental Dermatology 2016; 25(10): 824-826.
- Eucerin® AtopiControl Anti-Itch Spray, www.eucerin.de/produkte/atopicontrol, last accessed 11/13/2019
- Misery L, et al: Sensitive skin in France: a study on prevalence, relationship with age and skin type and impact on quality of life. JEADV 32; 5: 791-795.
DERMATOLOGIE PRAXIS 2019; 29(6): 34
