In this thesis, the mode of action of stratum corneum moisturizers is studied using a variety of techniques: cryo-scanning electron microscopy, freeze fracture transmission electron microscopy,... Show moreIn this thesis, the mode of action of stratum corneum moisturizers is studied using a variety of techniques: cryo-scanning electron microscopy, freeze fracture transmission electron microscopy, small angle X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Show less
Vernix caseosa (VC) is the cheesy, white cream that covers the skin of the human fetus and the newborn. VC is a protective cream, which consists of water containing dead cells that are embedded in... Show moreVernix caseosa (VC) is the cheesy, white cream that covers the skin of the human fetus and the newborn. VC is a protective cream, which consists of water containing dead cells that are embedded in lipids. This natural cream is suggested to feature multiple biological functions such as facilitating the skin formation during pregnancy and hydrating the skin of the newborn. The aim of this thesis was the rational design of synthetic creams which mimic VC__s structure and its unique properties. Synthetic creams were made of highly hydrated synthetic particles embedded in wool wax and skin lipids. These creams were shown to mimic excellently the structure and composition of natural VC, while the water content and release properties could be controlled. The developed creams showed their great potential for disrupted and underdeveloped skin concerning several aspects: the skin barrier recovery rate was drastically reduced, crust formation was prevented and thickening of the epidermis was less frequently observed. These promising results give rise to future clinical studies in order to prove the benefits of the newly developed creams to treat healthy, dry and diseased human skin. Show less
