Topical Moisturizer Meaningfully Reduces Disease Severity in Atopic Patients With Xerosis

Abstract

Repairing the epidermal barrier is critically important in atopic dermatitis (AD), but the effect of moisturizer on quality of life (QOL) is not well characterized.  Objective: To assess whether the use of a moisturizer improves QOL in atopic patients with xerosis.  Methods: Thirty-five (35) adults with xerosis and AD received a moisturizer designed for AD to apply daily for three months. Adherence was assessed with electronic monitors. Quality of life (QOL) was assessed with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) at baseline and follow-up.  Results: Mean adherence to the moisturizer was 46%. Dryness improved from 1.9 at baseline to 1.4 at follow-up (P=0.02). DLQI improved from 3.3 at baseline to 1.5 at 3 months (P=0.005). The "feeling self-conscious or embarrassed due to their skin condition" DLQI item improved from 0.79 at baseline to 0.14 at 3 months (P=0.0009).  Conclusion: Moisturizers are the foundation of AD treatment. Even non-medicated topical emollients can improve QOL in patients with AD.  J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(12):e51-e52.     doi:10.36849/JDD.7036e.