Theraplex has introduced its newest product, Anti-Itch Moisturizing Cream (AIM). Developed in collaboration with board-certified dermatologist Peter Lio, MD (clinical assistant professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL), AIM combines the unique moisturizing system of Theraplex with targeted, researched ingredients to soothe and protect dry, itchy, damaged skin. AIM provides relief of itchy rashes associated with flares of eczema through a three-pronged approach of enhanced moisturization, decreased inflammation, and balanced skin flora.
When skin becomes dry, the epidermal layer loses its ability to retain moisture. Skin becomes less protected and more prone to irritation. Without protection or correction, it is difficult for skin to repair itself, leading to a vicious cycle of persistently dry skin. Theraplex AIM was specifically designed to intervene and halt each step in this feedback loop: dry skin, itching, and potential infection. AIM uses the signature Theraplex moisturizer base to alleviate the discomfort and severity of dry skin through long-lasting moisturization. All Theraplex moisturizers contain a special fractionated petrolatum, an emollient known for its penetrating hydration and hypoallergenic properties, and cyclomethicone and microcrystalline wax; this unique delivery system protects and supports the skin’s natural barrier. The special fractionated petrolatum eliminates 80% of the greasiness associated with petrolatum while maintaining its superior moisturizing and skin protectant properties. The greaseless, durable microprotective barrier lasts for hours and stimulates the formation of essential lipids that surround and protect skin cells while sealing the skin to stop excessive moisture loss.
To combat scratching and subsequent inflammation, hydrocortisone and colloidal oatmeal were added to the formula. Corticosteroids are a mainstay of treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD), and hydrocortisone 1% is the strongest anti-itch ingredient available without a prescription. Colloidal oatmeal is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects, due to the presence of avenanthramides (polyphenolic compounds).1-4 Therefore, colloidal oatmeal offers a wide range of dermatologic benefits with its inherent ability to moisturize and soothe skin. Perpetuation of the itch/scratch cycle alters the integrity of the skin leading to barrier damage, but hydrocortisone and colloidal oatmeal, along with special fractionated petrolatum, microcrystalline wax, and cyclomethicone, stop pruritus and loss of moisture, respectively, thereby impeding further progression of the cycle and healing damage that has occurred.
Finally, natural coconut oil and ferulic acid provide a hostile environment for opportunistic bacteria, which can plague dry skin due to a loss of natural skin barrier function. AD long has been recognized as having a microbiota imbalance with increased colonization of Staphylococcus aureus. Early studies show that coconut oil offers antibacterial activity, specifically reducing 95% of S aureus colonization in patients with AD.5,6 High colonization burden of S aureus has been linked to disease severity in AD, and S aureus can exacerbate disease by increasing inflammation and allergic sensitization. Natural coconut oil also offers superior moisturizing properties that improve skin’s barrier function, while ferulic acid also provides the benefits of being an antioxidant.5,6
These carefully selected ingredients, based in the latest research in AD, combine to create a highly effective product that remains hypoallergenic and free from fragrance, parabens, preservatives, gluten, and lanolin. As a single product that targets dry skin, itching, and compromised skin barrier function, AIM is a novel approach to AD treatment and effective for itchy rashes associated with psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis.
References
1. Saeed SA, Butt NM, McDonald-Gibson WJ, Collier HOJ. Inhibitor(s) of prostaglandin biosynthesis in extracts of oat (Avena sativa) seeds. Biochem Soc Trans. 1981;9(5):444. doi:10.1042/bst0090444.
2. Vié K, Cours-Darne S, Vienne MP, Boyer F, Fabre B, Dupuy P. Modulating effects of oatmeal extracts in the sodium laurel sulfate skin irritancy model. Skin Pharmacol Appl Skin Physiol. 2002;15(2):120-124. doi:10.1159/000049399
3. Collins FW. Oat phenolics: structure, occurrence and function. In: Webster FH, ed. Oats: Chemistry and Technology. St Paul, MN: American Association of Cereal Chemists, Inc; 1986:227-291.
4. Sur R, Nigam A, Grote D, Liebel F, Southall MD. Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Arch Dermatol Res. 2008;300(10):569-574. doi:10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
5. Verallo-Rowell VM, Dillague KM, Syah-Tjundawan BS. Novel antibacterial and emollient effects of coconut and virgin olive oils in adult atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis. 2008;19(6):308-315. doi:10.2310/6620.2008.08052
6. Bilimortia SN, Lio PA. Staphylococcus aureus and atopic dermatitis: unweaving a tangled web. Practical Dermatol. 2019:61-66. https://practicaldermatology.com/articles/2019-mar/staphylococcus-aureus-and-atopic-dermatitis-unweaving-a-tangled-web. Accessed November 5, 2019.
