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Changes in skin physiology during bath PUVA therapy
H Löffler1, J Aramaki, K Friebe
1Department of Dermatology, Philipp University of Marburg, Germany. Harald.Loeffler@mailer.uni-marburg.de
The British Journal of Dermatology
|July 9, 2002
Summary
Frequent bathing and UVA irradiation therapy can impair skin barrier function and hydration, even on healthy skin. Supporting skin barrier recovery with moisturizers is recommended during this treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Photobiology
- Skin Physiology
Background:
- Frequent bathing can damage the skin barrier, altering physiological parameters.
- Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation may mitigate impaired skin barriers by reducing inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate physiological skin parameter changes during 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) bathing and UVA irradiation therapy.
- To assess the impact of this combined therapy on skin barrier function and hydration.
Main Methods:
- Thirty patients with skin disease (no barrier disruption) underwent daily 8-MOP bathing (0.0005%) and UVA irradiation.
- Physiological parameters (TEWL, blood flow, color, sebum, hydration) were measured on non-affected skin.
- Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) patch testing was performed to assess skin reactivity.
Main Results:
- Moderate but significant skin barrier and hydration disturbances were observed on the forearm and back with increasing therapy dosages.
- SLS patch testing revealed heightened reactions, indicating increased skin sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- 8-MOP bathing and UVA irradiation do not fully compensate for bathing-induced skin barrier impairment on healthy skin.
- Concomitant therapies, such as moisturizers, are advised to support skin barrier recovery during 8-MOP/UVA treatment.