Combination therapy improves the recovery of the skin barrier function: Anexperimental model using a contact allergy patch test combined with TEWL measurements

Background: Nickel (Ni) allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) alters the skin b arrier. Objective: Our aim was to compare the efficacy of combination thera pies on ACD, using a topical corticosteroid and a corneotherapy agent (barr ier cream), with that of a single therapy with corticosteroids. Methods: On day 1, 3 Ni test patches were applied on each forearm of 14 Ni-patch-test- positive females. Four contained 5% Ni and 2 physiological saline. Either t opical corticosteroid or barrier cream were matched with the combination of both products on 3 of the 4 Ni ACD. The fourth was not treated, Clinical s coring, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum (SC) capacitan ce were measured before (day 1) and after (days 4-8) ACD. Results: The comb ination therapy showed a significant decrease in TEWL values and an increas e in SC capacitance. Conclusion: Combining a topical corticosteroid with co rneotherapy agents prevents the delay in the healing process of skin barrie r disruption due to ACD, Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel.