Efficacy of an emollient dermoprotective cream in the treatment of elderly skin affected by xerosis

Aim. Xerosis cutis is a frequent condition in the elderly and the topical treatments are aimed to maintain a balance between the physiological components of the epidermis and an optimal moisturization. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of a dermoprotective, glycerol and paraffin-based cream in the treatment of individuals affected by senile xerosis. Methods. The patients were recruited at the Professional Dermatology and Allergology Outpatient Clinic of the San Gallicano Dermatological Institute of Rome, between 1st January 2013 and 30th September 2014. To assess the efficacy of the cream, two different areas of treatment were identified in each patient's limbs. All patients were staged at baseline (T0) and evaluated after 14 days (T1) and 28 days (T2) of topical treatment, using five clinical parameters: scaling, sensation of skin tightness, presence of fissuring and excoriations from scratching and erythema. The itching degree was also evaluated using a 10-step analogue scale. Results. Fifty patients with xerosis, 25 with a severe and 25 with a moderate form, over 60 years old were recruited and evaluated. Median age was 65 years (IQR=61-70). After 28 day of topical administration of the cream, 54.0% of patients showed the absence of signs of xerosis, 44.0% a mild form and 2.0% (one patient) a moderate form. Consistently, a progressive and significative reduction of itching and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and an improvement in skin hydration was also measured. A good profile of tolerability and no episodes of undesirable side effects were observed. Conclusion. The topical daily use of a glycerol and paraffinbased cream seems to be able to control the xerosis in elderly patients, with a significant reduction of all associated signs and symptoms. Further additional data should be collected to better confirm the role of the topical treatment in the control of disease.