Topical dexpanthenol effects on physiological parameters of the stratum corneum by Confocal Raman Microspectroscopy

• Published in: Skin research and technology Vol. 29; no. 9; pp. e13317 - n/a
• Main Authors: Porto Ferreira, Vitoria Tonini, Silva, Gustavo Carlos, Martin, Airton Abrahão, Maia Campos, Patrícia Maria Berardo Gonçalves
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England John Wiley & Sons, Inc 01.09.2023; John Wiley and Sons Inc
• Subjects: dexpanthenol; Epidermis; Female; Fluidity; Humans; In vivo methods and tests; intercellular lipids; Keratin; Keratins; Lamellar structure; Lipids; natural moisturizing factor; Optics; Original; Parameters; Physiological effects; Physiology; Protein structure; Secondary structure; Skin; skin barrier function; Stratum corneum; Water loss; skin barrier function; intercellular lipids; natural moisturizing factor; dexpanthenol
• ISSN: 0909-752X; 1600-0846; 1600-0846
• DOI: 10.1111/srt.13317

Background Topical use of dexpanthenol presents well‐established moisturizing properties and maintenance and repair of the skin barrier function, however, its exact action mechanisms are not completely elucidated. In this context, Confocal Raman Microspectroscopy is an optical method that enables non‐invasive and non‐destructive in vivo analysis with the sensitive acquisition of molecular changes in different skin layers. Herein, the aim was to evaluate the effects of topical dexpanthenol on the components and physiological parameters of the stratum corneum (SC). Materials and methods Ten healthy female subjects underwent skin evaluation by means of a Confocal Raman Spectrometer Skin Analyzer 3510. Spectral data were obtained from the skin of the anterior forearm region, before and 2 h after applying a cosmetic formulation containing or not containing 5% dexpanthenol. Results Semiquantitative analysis of the natural moisturizing factor showed a significant decrease in content after 2 h of topical dexpanthenol application, while the analysis of the lamellar organization of intercellular lipids and the secondary structure of keratin showed a significant increase in hexagonal organization of lipids at the first half of the SC and a significant increase in β‐pleated sheet conformation of keratin. Conclusion Effects of topical dexpanthenol on SC suggest a contribution in increasing fluidity of both lipidic and protein components of the SC and are compatible with dexpanthenol activity in maintaining adequate physiological conditions and preventing transepidermal water loss. This study also contributes to the elucidation of action mechanisms and other concurrent biochemical processes.