Efficacy of a Cream Containing Ceramides and Magnesium in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-blind, Emollient- and Hydrocortisone-controlled Trial

Abstract

The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the efficacy of a cream containing ceramides and magnesium (Cer-Mg) in the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis and to compare it with hydrocortisone and a commonly used emollient (unguentum leniens; cold cream). A total of 100 patients, randomized into 2 groups, were treated for 6 weeks simultaneously (left vs. right side of the body) with either Cer-Mg and hydrocortisone (group I) or Cer-Mg and emollient (group II). The primary outcome was a reduction in severity of lesions as assessed by (local) SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis). Levels of trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, and natural moisturizing factors (NMF) were then measured. After 6 weeks, group I showed comparable significant improvement in SCORAD and TEWL, while in group II, the decrease in SCORAD and TEWL was significantly greater after Cer-Mg compared with emollient. Finally, Cer-Mg cream was more effective in improving skin hydration and maintenance of levels of NMF than hydrocortisone and emollient.