Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema, is a prevalent skin condition that affects many children worldwide. It is characterised by symptoms such as dry, itchy and inflamed skin, which can lead to redness, swelling and even bleeding. This condition has a significant impact on the quality of life of children and their families. While there are multiple drug therapies available for atopic dermatitis, some may result in undesirable side effects. The use of natural topical antioxidants offers a non-invasive alternative for repairing the underlying cellular and molecular damage from oxidative-free radicals in AD subjects.
A group of researchers from the University Putra Malaysia has conducted a clinical study to access the effectiveness and safety of a topical moisturiser containing tocotrienol in children with mild to moderate AD1. The findings of the study suggested that tocotrienol-rich moisturiser is a safe and effective natural option for young children with AD.
This groundbreaking study, recently published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, involved 30 kids, aged between 1 month to 12 years old with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. During the trial, the participants in the trial were directed to apply the nonsteroidal topical cream containing tocotrienols three times a day to the affected areas of their AD lesions for a period of 12 weeks.
The potential efficacy of tocotrienol in the topical treatment of eczema is a significant development, providing hope for individuals with eczema
The study's findings revealed a significant improvement in the children's skin conditions following the use of the tocotrienol-rich moisturiser. There was a decrease in the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis Index (SCORAD) and Patient-oriented SCORAD (PO-SCORAD) scores from week 0 to week 12. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in investigator global assessment (IGA) at week 12 compared to baseline (p < 0.05). These results indicate a positive impact on AD throughout the trial.
Over the duration of the trial, the erythema index decreases as well in the AD subjects. The cream application resulted in a notable change in the cumulative severity of the erythema index, leading to a reduction in skin irritation. Moreover, a substantial decrease in the severity of pruritus was observed (p < 0.05). In addition, both the Infants' Dermatitis Quality of Life Index (IDQOL) and the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) exhibited a declining trend throughout the trial, indicating an improvement in the quality of life of the recruited AD subjects. Importantly, the application of the cream was well tolerated with no reported serious side effects.
“The potential efficacy of tocotrienol in the topical treatment of eczema is a significant development, providing hope for individuals with eczema. Tocotrienols, recognised as "Super Vitamin E," are widely acknowledged as a potent antioxidant with remarkable skin biological properties. This is an exciting breakthrough in dermatology that holds great promise. Tocotrienol’s anti-inflammatory properties play an important role in alleviating inflammation in AD. It is anticipated that this research will contribute to enhanced eczema management particularly for children”, said Dr. Ariati Aris, Scientific Affairs Specialist at PhytoGaia.
“I am delighted with the findings of this study. It further reinforces the growing body of evidence showcasing the powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of tocotrienols. These interesting results offer potential solutions in managing a common skin condition among kids”, added Mr. Bryan See, Vice President of PhytoGaia.
