DFD-01 Reduces Transepidermal Water Loss and Improves Skin Hydration and Flexibility

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Cosmetic Science
• Formulation Science

Background:

• Topical steroids are established treatments for plaque psoriasis.
• Vehicle formulations can enhance topical steroid efficacy.
• DFD-01 (betamethasone dipropionate spray, 0.05%) utilizes an emollient vehicle to improve skin penetration.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess DFD-01 and vehicle effects on skin hydration and barrier function in compromised skin.
• Evaluate DFD-01 and vehicle effects on healthy skin flexibility.

Main Methods:

• Two studies involving 18 healthy volunteers each.
• Study 1: Compromised skin barrier induced by shaving; measured transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin hydration (capacitance).
• Study 2: Intact skin flexibility measured using a cutometer.

Main Results:

• Both DFD-01 and vehicle reduced TEWL in compromised skin.
• Skin hydration levels in treated compromised skin were similar to controls.
• Both DFD-01 and vehicle increased softening and flexibility in intact skin.

Conclusions:

• DFD-01 formulation and its vehicle effectively retain moisture in damaged skin barriers.
• The formulation and vehicle soften and increase the flexibility of intact skin.