Influence of Moisturizers on Skin Microcirculation: An Assessment Study Using Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging
Ignace De Decker1,2, Tanja Klotz3,4, Peter Vu5
1Burn Center, Ghent University Hospital, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Journal of Personalized Medicine
|October 27, 2023
Summary
This study evaluated moisturizers and silicone gel for scar management. Silicone gel showed minimal impact on skin hydration and occlusion, while various moisturizers affected microcirculation differently, highlighting the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Wound Healing
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Non-invasive scar management relies on pressure therapy, hydration, and UV protection.
- Moisture loss can exacerbate hypertrophic scarring.
- Pressure therapy impacts fibroblast activity and growth factor release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different moisturizers and a silicone gel on skin microcirculation.
- To assess the impact of these products on trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), hydration, and blood flow.
- To compare the efficacy of various scar management products.
Main Methods:
- 40 volunteers with induced superficial abrasions.
- Application of five moisturizers (TEDRA®, TEDRA® NT1, TEDRA® NT3, Alhydran®, Lipikar®) and one silicone gel (BAP Scar Care®).
- Measurement of TEWL, hydration, and blood flow up to 4 hours post-application.
Main Results:
- Silicone gel demonstrated the least effect on occlusion and hydration.
- Alhydran® significantly reduced blood flow; Lipikar® increased it.
- TEDRA® products provided high hydration and good occlusion (except silicone).
- Moisturizers variably influenced skin microcirculation.
Conclusions:
- Moisturizers and silicone gels have distinct effects on skin hydration, occlusion, and microcirculation.
- The clinical significance of these microcirculatory changes on scar outcomes requires further investigation.
- Additional research is needed on moisturizers, alone and with pressure therapy, for scar treatment.
