Efficacy and Consumer Perception of a 96% Natural Cream Containing Lime Pearl Extract and Willow Bark Extract when used by Subjects with Clinically Determined Keratosis Pilaris
A. Donald ND, MSc1, R. Rozanski MD2
1Skinfix Inc, Halifax, NS, 2Consumer Product Testing Co.
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is characterized by small keratotic papules and varying degrees of perifollicular erythema.1 This common condition can affect all skin surfaces where hair grows but it is most commonly found on the face, buttocks, eyebrows, and extensor surfaces of the arms and thighs.2,3 The complaints associated with KP are generally limited to cosmetic appearance or mild pruritus3 and management strategies typically include the avoidance of skin dryness, emollient usage, and the addition of keratolytic agents or corticosteroids when necessary.3,4 A 96% natural steroid-free KP cream was formulated with a unique blend of lime pearl extract, willow bark extract, bisabolol, shea butter, and natural oils to gently exfoliate, soothe, and moisturize the skin. Lime pearl extract is naturally rich in α-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and offers a new mechanism to gently promote skin exfoliation via transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 3 (TRPV3), a keratinocyte transmembrane channel. Willow bark is a natural source of salicylic acid, which has been shown to reduce KP lesions5. Bisabolol and shea butter constitute a significant source of anti-inflammatory compounds, offering the ability to soothe irritation and redness.6-8 Finally, natural emollient oils round out the formula to help soften and smooth the skin. This clinical trial was conducted to assess the efficacy and subject perception of this natural KP formulation.
