We conducted a research program focused on infant skin types (normal, dry, sensitive, atopic), using similar in vitro models and non-invasive clinical assessments. All infants had clinical examination, skin barrier function and hydration assessment. Other markers were selected depending on skin types. In vitro models were mostly based on patented age-dependent reconstructed epidermis, customized for each skin problem, plus an innervated reconstructed epidermis model. Skin surface is immature until 2 years (Confocal microscopy) and hydration dysbalanced (Raman spectroscopy) with high NMF content at birth and a rapid decrease till 6 months. Infants with dry skin have low NMFs and ceramides levels compared to adults. Sensitive skin children show a decrease of hydration and elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines (children = adults). Infants with genetic risk of atopy have lower levels of NMFs and ceramides from birth until 6 months. Among them, the presence of desquamation of the face and redness of neck folds may represent a supplementary risk factor for AD. Dry skin models (dry atmosphere) provoked a decrease of skin barrier function (children > adults) and a decrease in NMFs and ceramides. Sensitive skin models (lactic acid applications) demonstrated elevation of ILRA/IL1α. Th2 cytokines AD model provoked an increase of CCL2, 5, 27 and a decrease of markers of basal epidermal stem cells, both regulated by specific emollient. In Staph aureus model, biofilm developed within 24 hours, prevented by specific emollient. Depletion of filaggrin model (technology of Small-hairpin RNA) induced decrease of filaggrin, NMF and ceramides expression and of keratohyalin granules numbers. Innervated epidermal model showed that skin barrier and stem cell markers are more stimulated in children than in adult model. In conclusion, targeted noninvasive explorations and customized skin models are useful to study infant skin and develop skin care products adapted to their needs.

ESDR234 - EV.E.I.L.S research program on infant skin from birth : Contribution to characterize different skin types

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.