THE EFFICACY OF MOISTURIZERS IN RESTORING HYDRATION,SKIN pH, AND REDUCING TRANS-EPIDERMAL WATER LOSS(TEWL) IN PATIENTS WITH ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the common diseases seen at the dermatology clinic. A major complaint and clinical feature among AD patients is dryness of the skin and this has led to moisturisers being a major part of the treatment of AD. Studies of skin biophysical properties in AD patients reveal decreased hydration and increased trans epidermal water loss (TEWL). A variety of moisturisers are available, and they all claim to be effective at moisturising the skin in patients with AD. Studies documenting their proven efficacy have been carried out in temperate and non-tropical climates. The tropical climate in Nigeria differs considerably, with her hot and humid environment and temperature ranging between 25-40°C. There is a dearth of literature documenting the tolerability and effectiveness of moisturisers in this setting. Topicrem®, one of the moisturisers available for use in management of AD is a new product in the Nigerian market. The product is a fluid and non-oily emulsion with a high moisturizing and lipid-replenishing power that instantly penetrates the skin without feeling sticky, thereby conferring 24-hour hydration following daily use. It has been used and validated successfully in other climes; however, it is yet to be clinically tested in Nigeria. The aim of this study, therefore, is to compare the recovery of skin hydration and normalization of TEWL in AD patients by Topicrem®, with the use of a validated moisturising lotion.Aim: To assess the efficacy of two moisturisers in restoring hydration, skin pH and Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) of patients with Atopic Dermatitis.