Research

Research Summary Background:Long-term exposure to ultraviolet irradiation from sunlight causes premature skin aging (photoaging), characterized in part by wrinkles, altered pigmentation, and loss of skin tone. Photoaged skin displays prominent alterations in the collagenous extracellular matrix of connective tissue. We investigated the role of matrix-degrading metalloproteinases, a family of proteolytic enzymes, as mediators of collagen damage in photoaging.Methods:We studied 59 white individuals (33 men and 26 women, ranging in age from 21 to 58 years) with light-to-moderate skin pigmentation, none of whom had current or prior skin disease. Only some of the participants were included in each of the studies....

Research Summary One of the more common dermatologic concerns in patients is aging skin. In a culture that is often called "youth-obsessed," patients increasingly look for creams and procedures that can improve the appearance of their skin. In 2004, U.S. retail sales of cosmeceuticals, cosmetic products purported to have medicinal or drug-like benefits, accounted for over $12.4 billion. By 2010, the anti-aging market was expected to account for over $16.5 billion in sales (Choi & Berson, 2006). Research into skin aging has also advanced considerably in the past two decades. Clinical manifestations of skin aging, the mechanisms which underlie these...

Research SummaryA growing body of literature suggests that some moisturizers can improve stratum corneum barrier function, as well as ameliorate dry skin. The clinical signs and symptoms of rosacea, which include increased facial skin dryness and sensitivity, suggest a possible role for such moisturizers as an adjuvant in the management of this condition.This randomized, investigator-blind, controlled observational study (N=50) was designed to assess whether a niacinamide-containing facial moisturizer would improve the stratum corneum barrier and thus provide a clinical benefit to subjects with rosacea. Subjects with rosacea applied the test moisturizer to their face and to one forearm twice daily...

Research Summary Administration of substances through the skin represents a promising alternative to other drug administration routes due to its large body surface area, offering ideal and multiple sites for drug administration. In addition, administering drugs through the skin avoids first-pass metabolism, allowing an increase in the bioavailability of drugs while reducing their side effects. However, the stratum corneum (SC) comprises the main barrier of protection against external agents, mainly due to its structure, composition, and physicochemical properties, which becomes the main limitation for the administration of substances through the skin. In view of the above, pharmaceutical technology has allowed...