Antimicrobial properties and skin compatibility of a new emollient (body lotion) containing octenidine and silver citrate for atopic skin

Introduction: Emollients are the mainstay of nonpharmacologic treatment of atopic dermatitis and are considered critical in the care of skin with an atopic tendency to prevent the appearance of cutaneous symptoms. Its function is to improve hydration and restore skin barrier function, whose alteration leads to transepidermal water loss and facilitates excessive colonization by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). We are presenting the first trials conducted with a new cosmetic emollient product containing octenidine and silver citrate as antimicrobial components. Material and methods: The following have been evaluated: in vitro antimicrobial capacity of the product against S. aureus, skin compatibility in subjects with sensitive skin (patchtest) and antimicrobial protection of the product (Challenge test). Results: In vitro studies demonstrated inhibition of S. aureus growth. After 48 hours of contact with the product under an occlusive patch, none of the subjects showed any signs of irritation. The effectiveness of the product’s preservative system was confirmed in the Challenge test. Conclusions: The new cosmetic containing octenidine and silver citrate, specially designed for skin with an atopic tendency, thanks to its emollient and antimicrobial effect, has been shown to be effective for controlling the bacterial overgrowth of S. aureus characteristic of AD, without being an irritant and with good skin compatibility.