Combination therapy improves the recovery of the skin barrier function: an experimental model using a contact allergy patch test combined with TEWL measurements

Abstract

Background: Nickel (Ni) allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) alters the skin barrier.

Objective: Our aim was to compare the efficacy of combination therapies on ACD, using a topical corticosteroid and a corneotherapy agent (barrier cream), with that of a single therapy with corticosteroids.

Methods: On day 1, 3 Ni test patches were applied on each forearm of 14 Ni-patch-test-positive females. Four contained 5% Ni and 2 physiological saline. Either topical corticosteroid or barrier cream were matched with the combination of both products on 3 of the 4 Ni ACD. The fourth was not treated. Clinical scoring, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum (SC) capacitance were measured before (day 1) and after (days 4-8) ACD.

Results: The combination therapy showed a significant decrease in TEWL values and an increase in SC capacitance.

Conclusion: Combining a topical corticosteroid with corneotherapy agents prevents the delay in the healing process of skin barrier disruption due to ACD.