The Efficacy of Organic Filter-Based Sunscreens in Alleviating Symptoms and Enhancing the Condition of Sensitive Skin

Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 Dec 19:17:2945-2952. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S486770. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Background: Sensitive skin causes discomfort from irritants, impacting quality of life. While hypoallergenic moisturizers help prevent moisture loss, some ingredients can still cause irritation. Treatments like steroids and calcineurin inhibitors have side effects, and chemical sunscreens can cause irritation in sensitive skin.

Objective: In this study, we performed a patch test by applying Bariderm Shield Cream MD in patients with facial dermatitis or sensitive skin with weakened skin barrier function and investigated whether it had an effect in relieving clinical symptoms and improving skin barrier function. We also want to find out the safety of whether new dermatitis will not occur.

Methods: 15 pruritus patients (average age 33.07 ± 11.57) applied this twice daily for 8 weeks. Effectiveness was evaluated using SS-10 (Sensitive scale-10), severity by area, TEWL (transepidermal water loss), and SCH (skin corneum hydration). We performed repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc analysis using Python statistics.

Results: Fifteen pruritus patients (average age 33.07 ± 11.57) applied this twice daily for 8 weeks. Effectiveness was evaluated using SS-10 (Sensitive scale-10), severity by area, TEWL (transepidermal water loss), and SCH (skin corneum hydration). SS-10 showed a significant difference at week 8. TEWL decreased after 8 weeks, while moisture increased after 4 weeks of application. Severity scores for erythema, scales, papules, and pustules on both cheeks notably decreased compared to baseline at week 4 and 8 after application.

Conclusion: This study shows that Barriederm Shield Cream MD® is safe for patients with sensitive skin. It suggests that it is suitable for sensitive skin, with the result of improving the skin barrier, and addresses safety and efficacy issues.

Keywords: organic sunscreen; sensitive scale-10; sensitive skin; skin corneum hydration.

Grants and funding

This study was funded by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) (grant number NRF-2022R1A2C2007739), a grant of the Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), funded by the Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea (grant number HP23C0201), by the 2024 Kwangwoon University Research Fund and by the Hallym University Research Fund.