Background: Sensitive skin is a hyperreactive condition with rising prevalence. A holistic skin care routine is crucial for management. Selecting appropriate skin care products is of great concern in clinical practice.
Aims: To assess the effectiveness and safety of a facial cream containing Centella asiatica leaf extract, ceramide NP, and panthenol in Chinese females with sensitive skin.
Methods: In this single-center, prospective, self-controlled study, 88 female participants applied the cream on their whole face, with follow-ups at Day 2, Weeks 1, 2, and 4. The primary endpoint was the change rate of the SS-10 global score at Week 2. Non-invasive skin parameters and subject self-assessment were conducted. Adverse events (AEs) were monitored.
Results: Mean SS-10 scores dropped by 66% and 76% after 2 and 4 weeks. Four symptoms (skin irritation, tautness, itching, and redness) were significantly reduced. TEWL decreased at Weeks 1 and 2, and skin pH at Week 1 and Weeks 2 and 4. SCH increased at all time points and sebum secretion at Week 4. EI, a* value, and facial red area rapidly decreased. Greater improvements were seen in the sensitive skin group compared with the slightly sensitive skin group. All AEs were mild and self-limiting.
Conclusions: This study showed the facial cream was effective and safe for 4-week use. It provided immediate relief of facial redness and discomfort, strengthened skin barrier, and modulated pH and sebum secretion, indicating favorable soothing and barrier-repairing properties for sensitive skin.
Keywords: barrier function; cosmetics; facial cream; moisturizer; redness; sensitive skin; skin hydration.
© 2025 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.