Korean J Dermatol.  2021 Dec;59(10):770-777.

The Efficacy of Skin Care Habit Modifications on the Skin Barrier Function in Rosacea Patients

• Seol JE
• Cho GJ
• Ahn SW
• Hong SM
• Park SH
• Jung SY
• Kim H

Abstract

Background
Patients with rosacea usually suffer from skin irritations, such as itching, stinging, burning, and pain. These symptoms may be related to the skin barrier function disruption.
Objective
We investigated the skin barrier functions in patients with mild to moderate rosacea and the associated improvements based on the skin care habit modifications and treatment modalities.
Methods
We analyzed the data on transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum hydration (SCH) of skin lesions in 27 patients with rosacea and healthy skin of 29 control subjects. We compared the results of TEWL and SCH based on sex, age, type of rosacea, skin care habits, and the treatment modalities.
Results
The skin in the patients with rosacea exhibited increased TEWL and decreased SCH compared with that in control subjects. Male patients showed increased TEWL and decreased SCH compared to female patients. Combination therapy with systemic minocycline and topical metronidazole improved the skin barrier functions. Patients with better skin care habits presented better skin barrier functions and clinical improvement.
Conclusion
Patients with rosacea, especially those with poor skin care habits, showed reduced skin barrier functions. Appropriate skin care habits with cleansers and moisturizers are recommended for the management of rosacea.

Keyword

Metronidazole; Minocycline; Rosacea; Skin care