Histological Analysis Shows That a Moisturizer Formulated for Dermatoporosis Increases Elastin Content and Improves Skin Elasticity.

Abstract

Background: Dermatoporosis involves age-related alterations in dermal structure and cellular function, including changes in collagen, elastin, and markers of skin senescence. Changes in skin biomarkers (collagen I, elastin, senescence-associated beta-galactosidase, CD44, and CD47) were assessed following the use of a novel moisturizer, GC (Galderma Laboratories, L.P., Fort Worth, TX), by subjects with mature, aging skin.

Methods: This 12-week multisite study recruited female and male subjects aged 40 to 60 years of all races, ethnicities, and Fitzpatrick skin types. Subjects were required to have a history of fragile skin and dry, crepey skin on the knees. The GC cream was applied to the knee and thigh skin twice daily. A subset of 5 patients underwent 3-mm punch biopsies on the upper knee at baseline and week 12 for immunohistochemistry. Standardized photography of skin appearance and pinch-release tests were conducted at baseline and weeks 4, 8, and 12.

Results: With GC cream use, elastin expression increased from baseline to week 12 (18% to 36%; P<.05) and beta-galactosidase expression trended higher (18% to 24%). Expression of CD44 (91% to 92%), CD47 (81% to 82%), and collagen type I alpha 1 (94% at both timepoints) was stable. Subjects' skin firmness and appearance were visibly improved.

Conclusion: After 12 weeks of twice-daily use of the GC cream, there was a significant increase in elastin expression, which was accompanied by visual improvement in skin elasticity and texture. These data validate clinical histological findings and show how topical intervention can improve overall skin health.  .