Abstract
The symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) are often controlled by topical corticosteroids, which, however, are not suitable for the long-term management owing to the risk of side effects. Moisturizers can be used to prevent ICD and to treat lesions of mild to moderate severity. In this study we want to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of a cosmetic cream (Efaderm® cream), containing a mixture of substances with moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects (borago officinalis oil, soy sterol, urea, lithium glycyrrethinate, carbocysteine, tocopheryl acetate, coenzyme Q10, allantoin), in the treatment of ICD. Three hundred and twelve patients with ICD entered the study. ICD was induced by either occupational or non-occupational factors, affected various skin sites, especially the hands, and was characterized by a subacute, recurrent or chronic course in the majority of cases. The cream was applied on lesionai skin twice a day, or more frequently if needed, for approximately 4 weeks. Most patients (n. 179) did not adopt preventive measures (e.g., irritant avoidance, suspension of working activities, use of protective gloves). After treatment, there was a significant improvement (P<0.001) of symptoms and signs of ICD (erythema, scaling/dryness, oozing/crusting, excoriations/fissuring, pruritus/burning), independently on the use of prevention. Patient's assessment of overall effectiveness was positive in the majority of cases.