Update on the research of an emulgel for the effective treatment of atopic dermatitis: clinical investigation in children

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects up to 25% of children and impairs both skin barrier function and quality of life. This study examined the effectiveness of an emulgel containing hyaluronic acid, glycerol, grape seed oil, Calendula officinalis, aloe vera and sh-oligopeptide-1 (a synthetic Epidermal Growth Factor) for treating paediatric AD. In a randomised, self-controlled trial, 57 children (aged 2–14) applied the emulgel twice daily for 10 days to one forearm and left the other forearm as a control. Skin barrier parameters such as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), erythema and pH were measured. After applying the emulgel, lesional skin showed reduced erythema (p = 0.007), lower TEWL (p = 0.002) and higher SCH (p < 0.001). Nonlesional skin showed improved SCH (p < 0.001). SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) and Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores indicated milder disease post-treatment (mild cases: 64.9% to 80.7% SCORAD; 82.5% to 93.0%EASI). The Dermatology Life Quality Index improved by ~3.5 points, and patients reported high satisfaction with no adverse effects. This emulgel is an effective and well-tolerated adjunctive therapy for paediatric AD, enhancing barrier function and clinical outcomes.