Enhancing Quality of Life and Emotional Well-Being in Atopic Dermatitis Patients: Clinical Evidence of a Dermocosmetic Lipid-Replenishing Regimen

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2026 Jan;25(1):e70658. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70658.

Abstract

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by impaired skin barrier function, xerosis, and pruritus, significantly affecting quality of life (QoL). Effective dermocosmetic strategies are needed to alleviate symptoms and improve well-being.

Aims: This study assessed the efficacy of a lipid-replenishing dermocosmetic regimen, including a cleansing oil and emollient balm (Topicrem, Laboratoires NIGY, France), in adults with moderate to severe AD.

Patients/methods: A 4-week clinical study was conducted under dermatological supervision on 21 adults with moderate to severe AD. Patients applied the DA PROTECT Replenishing Cleansing Oil and Emollient Balm (Topicrem) once or twice daily. Efficacy was evaluated via TransEpidermal Water Loss (TEWL), corneometry, SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis) index, and patient-reported outcomes. The impact on QoL was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Results: After 4 weeks, TEWL decreased by 27%, and skin hydration increased by 89% indicating a reinforced skin barrier and improved moisturization. The SCORAD index improved by 27%, pruritus decreased by 61%, and sleep quality improved by 62%, reflecting reduced disease severity. The DLQI score improved by 68%, demonstrating a strong correlation between the dermocosmetic regimen and enhanced QoL, particularly in items related to symptoms, sleep, social life, and emotional well-being. Patient satisfaction was high, with 81% rating efficacy as "good to very good" and 90% approving cosmetic acceptability.

Conclusion: The investigational lipid-replenishing regimen significantly improved skin barrier function, hydration, pruritus relief, and QoL in patients with moderate to severe AD. These findings highlight the importance of dermocosmetic interventions in AD management, reducing discomfort, and enhancing patient well-being.

Keywords: SCORAD; atopic dermatitis; lipid‐replenishing regimen; pruritus relief; quality of life; skin barrier function; well‐being.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Balneology* / methods
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / complications
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / diagnosis
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / drug therapy
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / psychology
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / therapy
  • Emollients* / administration & dosage
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Reported Outcome Measures
  • Pruritus / etiology
  • Quality of Life*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Water Loss, Insensible / drug effects
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Emollients