Journal of Cosmetology & Trichology

Soothing Efficacy of a Cosmetic Ingredient on Skin Discomforts Induced by Mechanical, Chemical and Environmental Stress Agents

Abstract

Andrea Burioli, Enza Cestone, Eleonora Spartà, Manuela Sciumè, Vincenzo Zaccaria, Violetta Insolia and Vincenzo Nobile*

The skin sensitive syndrome is a widespread condition with an impact on the quality of life of the affected subjects. Cosmetics may be formulated specifically for sensitive skin conditions, alleviating the relative symptoms. The present study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a natural extract containing polysaccharides from Opuntia ficus-indica (cladodes extract), biophenols from Olea Europaea (olive leaves extract) and flavonoids from Capparis spinosa (caper fruit) on skin discomfort induced by different stressors such as skin redness and skin barrier function alteration by shaving/ epilation; neurogenic mediated by capsaicin; and skin redness induced by UV exposure. Three randomized double-blind, controlled studies were carried out on 20 Caucasian subjects. Product efficacy was measured by means of both instrumental measures (redness and transepidermal water loss, TEWL) and by subjective scoring of the functional signs (itching/stinging and burning sensations) induced by each stressor. The active ingredient showed to decrease: the skin redness and the TEWL after shaving/epilation, the capsaicin-induced skin discomforts and the UV-induced skin redness. Our results demonstrate the ingredient efficacy in decreasing the skin discomforts induced by physical, chemical and environmental agents. The soothing and protective activities besides this cosmetic ingredient might be used in formulations for sensitive skin condition management.