Acid-coated Textiles (pH 5.5-6.5)--a New Therapeutic Strategy for Atopic Eczema?

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Materials Science
• Textile Engineering

Background:

• Atopic eczema (AE) is characterized by a compromised epidermal barrier, indicated by increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and reduced skin capacitance.
• The skin's natural "acid mantle" plays a crucial role in barrier function, leading to the development of acidic skincare products.
• The impact of citric acid-coated textiles on atopic skin has not been previously investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of citric acid-coated textiles in managing atopic skin conditions.
• To assess the effects of these textiles on skin barrier function, pH, and clinical eczema scores.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, half-side study involving 20 patients with AE or atopic diathesis.
• Patients wore citric acid-coated cellulose fiber textiles (pH 5.5-6.5) for 12 hours daily over 14 days.
• Assessments included skin barrier parameters (TEWL, capacitance), skin surface pH, and clinical eczema scoring (SCORAD), alongside tolerability evaluations.

Main Results:

• Citric acid-coated textiles demonstrated good tolerability among participants.
• Significant improvements were observed in eczema severity and objective skin barrier parameters.
• A reduction in skin surface pH and potential for decreased pathogenic microbial colonization were noted.

Conclusions:

• Citric acid-coated textiles represent a promising therapeutic approach for atopic eczema.
• These textiles effectively enhance skin barrier function and reduce skin surface pH.
• Further research may explore their role in modulating skin microbiome in AE.