Evaluation of a skin protection cream for dry skin in patients undergoing narrow band UVB phototherapy for psoriasis vulgaris.

AIM: Severe dry skin is very often associated with chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis vulgaris and can be treated with emollients and moisturizers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a new cream containing glycerol, vaseline, and liquid paraffin versus an ointment containing vaseline in patients with severe dry skin and undergoing narrow band UVB phototherapy for moderate psoriasis vulgaris. METHODS: 54 patients were included in this study (age range, 18-63 years): 26 were randomized to receive treatment with the skin protection cream twice a day; 28 received treatment with a vaseline ointment twice a day. Clinical parameters (erythema, desquamation, and lichenification) were assessed at 3 time points (baseline, after two weeks of treatment, and at the end of the four-week study period). Treatment efficacy and tolerability were assessed by comparing changes in skin hydration as measured by corneometry. RESULTS: At the final assessment, greater improvement in clinical parameters and self-reported questionnaire responses was observed in the cream-treated than in the vaseline-treated group. Improved skin hydration was noted in the cream-treated group already after one week into therapy and the product was well tolerated. CONCLUSION: The new formulation cream was found to be effective in reducing eythema, flaking and lichenification and to improve skin hydration in patients undergoing narrow band UVB phototherapy for psoriasis vulgaris.