A must-have reference for any researcher or scientist interested in cutaneous protective mechanisms, this guide provides expertly researched chapters on every aspect of stratum corneum structure, function, and development, as well as detailed sections on barrier-repair strategies and the role of barrier function in diseases such as atopic dermatiti

Although a very fragile structure, the skin barrier is probably one of the most important organs of the body. Inward/out it is responsible for body integrity and outward/in for keeping microbes, chemicals, and allergens from penetrating the skin. Since the role of barrier integrity in atopic dermatitis and the relationship to filaggrin mutations was discovered a decade ago, research focus has been on the skin barrier, and numerous new publications have become available. This book is an interdisciplinary update offering a wide range of information on the subject. It covers new basic research on skin markers, including results on filaggrin and on methods for the assessment of the barrier function. Biological variation and aspects of skin barrier function restoration are discussed as well. Further sections are dedicated to clinical implications of skin barrier integrity, factors influencing the penetration of the skin, influence of wet work, and guidance for prevention and saving the barrier. Distinguished researchers have contributed to this book, providing a comprehensive and thorough overview of the skin barrier function. Researchers in the field, dermatologists, occupational physicians, and related industry will find this publication an essential source of information.

Skin Barrier is the first book to be written exclusively by researchers for researchers as a convenient desktop reference. It focuses on several key aspects of the skin barrier including composition and structure and a description of the properties governing the diffusion of compounds across the skin. Although there has been a large number of laboratories involved in measuring percutaneous absorption over the past 15 to 20 years, it is only recently that there has been a general consensus in the scientific community regarding the development of standard protocols. Recognizing the importance of this, the authors have included two chapters detailing the protocol used in measuring and predicting percutaneous absorption and a discussion on the practical application of these techniques to solve associated problems. In order to provide the researcher and especially the student with access to more detailed information, the book features a comprehensive listing of references published over the past 10 years. Skin Barrier is the only desktop reference for dermatologists, cosmetologists, biochemists, biologists, and those in the pharmaceutics industry, who need detailed and accurate information about the skin barrier on a daily basis. No R & D department should be without a copy.

Focusing on new biophysical and analytical methods that can assess lipid status and the improvement of skin condition, this reference provides essential quantitative information on the interaction of topically applied lipids with skin barrier lipids. Containing contributions from internationally recognized specialists and over 1000 references, drawings, photographs, and tables, it explores how different lipid varieties function in cosmetic formulations and on the skin. Coverage includes the chemistry, structure, and biological functions of skin lipids and their interaction with the lipids formulated into skin and hair care preparations.

Cosmeceuticals are ingredients or products that provide cosmetic and therapeutic benefits and which can be obtained without a prescription. They are one of the fastest growing segments in the personal care product market. Even in the worst economic climate, sales of cosmetics remain robust. Beauty enhancers are our best means of feel-good escapism, and we are not about to give them up. The ingredients, sales locations, and the regulation of sales are dynamic aspects of the industry. Here we give you a heads-up on where the market is going so you can make strategic decisions for your practice. This book will give you an understanding of facial cosmeceuticals examining the needs of the face, moisturizer formulation, noninvasive testing, and clinical evaluation to establish efficacy. It sheds light on topics such as the delivery mechanisms of active ingredients, vitamin A and C and other antioxidants, growth factors and stem cells, peptides, or amino acids. Topics also include the use of cosmeceuticals for the treatment of acne, rosacea, and hair loss and for hair care as well as the treatment of scars and cosmeceuticals for sun protection and protection from pollution. It also covers aspects of nutraceuticals and diets for healthy skin.