Data from a presentation at the recent European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology Congress's virtual meeting, as reported on the Healio News website, revealed that the use of ceramide-containing skincare products in a daily skincare routine reduced dryness and erythema caused by the use of topical acne medications.

Researchers conducted a randomized study that included 91 patients with moderate facial acne and oily/combination skin who were randomly assigned to a treatment group (n = 45) or a control group (n = 46). All subjects were prescribed adapalene 0.3%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5% gel to be used once daily in the evening. The treatment group also received a ceramide-containing foaming cleanser and a ceramide-containing facial lotion to use each morning and evening. The researchers observed that after 1week, transepidermal water loss increased 47% in the control group and 35% in the treatment group. The researchers also noted that visible dryness, erythema, and scaling was also significantly reduced or eliminated in the treatment group compared with the control group.

The authors noted that their research established a correlation between skin-barrier function and acne treatment–induced irritation and demonstrated the benefits of a ceramide-containing foaming cleanser and facial lotions as adjunctive therapy.

Dr. Zoe Draelos, MD, of Dermatology Consulting Services and colleagues, wrote, "Topical acne medications have been shown to disrupt skin barrier function contributing to dryness, flaking and erythema. Adjunctive skincare is used to help address signs of irritation to improve patient compliance and outcomes."

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