Abstract
BACKGROUND: Currently, many studies are exploring the effects of cleansers containing petrolatum and fatty acids on skin condition, but no research has yet investigated the impact of cleansers containing ceramides on skin condition. AIMS: Therefore, this study aims to explore whether a ceramide-containing glycinate-based cleanser can improve the skin conditions of oily skin and skin post-intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, with a particular focus on the skin barrier. METHODS: In this study, 88 volunteers were recruited and divided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 44, oily skin) used ceramide-containing cleansers for 28 days, with subsequent assessment of skin hydration, TEWL (transepidermal water loss), sebum content, and pore count. Group 2 (n = 44) received IPL treatment prior to using the same cleansers, followed by evaluation of redness and self-reported symptoms. RESULTS: The experimental results demonstrated that in Group 1, after 28 days of product application, skin hydration increased by 47.37%, TEWL decreased by 13.42%, pore number was reduced by 6.92%, and sebum content showed a 79.18% reduction. For Group 2, comparative analysis revealed that following the use of ceramide-containing cleansers after IPL treatment, skin redness significantly decreased by 14.62% compared to post-IPL measurements, with concurrent notable improvements in all self-reported symptoms, including itching and tightness. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, a ceramide-containing glycinate-based cleanser can effectively control sebum secretion, reduce pore size, and repair the skin barrier in oily skin. Additionally, it can help reduce redness in IPL-treated skin. For dermatologists and consumers, this formulation represents a promising option for people undergoing IPL procedures, combining cleansing with barrier repair to minimize post-treatment downtime.