Study of Adjuvant Sensitive-Skin Cleansing and Moisturizing Regimen in Plaque Psoriasis

Epidermal barrier dysfunction is a key feature of plaque psoriasis. Skincare improves epidermal barrier function and is an increasingly recommended part of psoriasis management.

This multicenter, blinded study of adults (N=46) with psoriasis evaluated the use of a gentle skincare regimen (cleanser, moisturizer, and optional moisturizer with SPF 35) as an adjunct to medical therapy during an 8-week period. Efficacy was assessed via clinical grading of body surface area (BSA), target lesion severity score (TLSS), physician global assessment (PGA), and bioinstrumentation for skin hydration and texture. Standard safety and tolerability assessments were performed, and subjects completed satisfaction and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaires.

There was a statistically significant decrease in BSA by week 8 from 9.3 to 5.1 (P<0.05). Significant improvements in TLSS (10.9 to 3.5, P<0.05) and PGA (2.7 to 1.4, P<0.05) occurred by week 8, with improvements noted at each study time point (P<0.05 vs baseline). Bioinstrumentation showed reduced scaling and improved skin smoothness (P<0.05 at all timepoints vs baseline). DLQI results improved from 9.2 at baseline (a moderate effect of disease) to 2.9 at week 8 (small effect, P<0.05). There was a significant reduction in dryness, itching, and burning/stinging throughout the study (P<0.05 at all timepoints). Four adverse events occurred in 4 subjects (itching and burning/stinging) and resolved by the end of the study.

This study highlighted the benefit of skincare in conjunction with prescription products for plaque psoriasis. The skincare regimen supported the skin barrier and improved patient outcomes.