Moisturizer Based on Multi-Targeted Skin Barrier Repair Conception: Evidence From In Vitro and Clinical Evaluations.

BACKGROUND

Skin barrier dysfunction is a key driver of skin sensitivity and inflammatory dermatoses. However, the long-term efficacy of existing moisturizers remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a moisturizer formulated with target skin disruption, lock in moisture, connect skin cells (TLC) technology using in vitro and clinical evaluations.

METHODS

The efficacy of the TLC complex was assessed through ultraviolet A (UVA)-induced full-thickness skin, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)-damaged epidermis, and capsaicin-stimulated keratinocytes in vitro. Clinical evaluations were conducted to comprehensively assess the soothing effects, hydration enhancement, and barrier repair of the TLC technology-based moisturizer.

RESULTS

The TLC complex significantly suppressed the expression of nuclear factor kappa B, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, interleukin-1α, prostaglandin E2, and vascular endothelial growth factor (all p < 0.01). It also markedly increased aquaporin-3, natural moisturizing factor levels, and the ceramide-to-protein ratio (all p < 0.01). The expression of key barrier proteins, including filaggrin, loricrin, involucrin, keratin 10, corneodesmosin, claudin-1, and laminin-5, was significantly restored (all p < 0.01). Clinically, the TLC moisturizer significantly reduced facial redness proportion, a* value, erythema index, and Sensitive Scale-10 score (all p < 0.001). A single application markedly boosted hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss (p < 0.001). The moisturizer also significantly accelerated barrier repair in SLS-damaged skin (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The TLC-based moisturizer demonstrated comprehensive anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and barrier-restoring effects in preclinical and clinical evaluations, supporting its use as a safe and effective adjuvant therapy for individuals with sensitive or compromised skin.