Selection of washing agents for acute topical therapy in an aging dermal burn study

Abstract

The water-content of the skin declines with age, resulting in drying of the epidermis. Moreover, wound repair ability decreases along with aging. The recovery process from wounds accompanying these age-related changes to the skin has been examined in a small number of animal studies. The present study considered differences arising from the washing agent used for topical therapy, with a focus on the recovery. The present study created an experimental mouse model of skin burns, and investigated the effects of the following agents on moisture retention of the affected area：1）commercial alkalinity（CA）soap；2）commercial mild acidic liquid（CMAL）soap；3）100% olive oil soap made with the cold process method（CP）. The parameters assessed was water content as measured. After 5 time-treatment, there was statistical significance between moisture contents treated with CP and CA, CMAL or control（p＜0.05）. The treatment with CP tended to decrease inflammatory necrosis and scab formation, and to enhance epidermal regeneration and favorable cosmetic appearance than that with CA and CMAL, and control. The results showed that CP had the abilities to retain moisture and promote wound healing, suggesting that CP is effective in healing aging dry skin.