Effects of Two Different Basic Skincare Regimens on Children and Adult Skin Microbiota: An Exploratory Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Regular use of leave-on skincare products has positive effects on the skin barrier and appears to influence the skin microbiome in atopic dermatitis (AD). However, product-related effects on the skin microbiome are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate to which extent the application of an emollient plus product differs from a petrolatum-based basic skincare product in terms of skin physiology, skin barrier, and skin microbiome. Methods: In an exploratory study regime, 50 subjects (children and adults) with mild AD were randomized to receive Bepanthen SensiDaily® (BSD) and Basiscreme DAC (DAC) for 3 months in a crossover design. Skin physiological measurements and skin microbiome swabs were taken on the forearm and lower leg before and after each 3-month application period of the respective product. Results: Improvement of skin physiological parameters after 3 months was observed in both topical leave-on product groups. Statistically significant differences were observed in baseline microbiomes between children and adults (p < 0.001) but not between the product groups. Conclusion: Regular application of leaveon products leads to better stratum corneum hydration after 3 months with better effects of BSD on the forearms of children and the lower legs of adults compared to DAC. The application of BSD and DAC did not lead to significant alterations in the overall composition of the skin microbiome. Although there were shifts in the frequency of certain microbial genera, these changes were not consistent between age groups and treatments.