# Comprehensive Evaluation of Body Lotion in Alleviating Xerosis: A Multi‐Omics Approach to Lipid Metabolism and Microbial Community Modulation

## TL;DR

A body lotion with ceramides and natural oils improves dry skin by restoring lipids and balancing the skin microbiome.

## Contribution

The study uses a multi-omics approach to reveal how the lotion affects lipid metabolism and microbial communities in xerosis.

## Key findings

- The lotion improved skin hydration, radiance, and smoothness while reducing TEWL and scaling.
- Lipidomics showed higher levels of essential lipids in the treatment group.
- Microbiome analysis revealed increased diversity and a shift toward a healthier microbial balance.

## Abstract

Xerosis, marked by a compromised skin barrier and disrupted lipid metabolism, leads to dryness, scaling, and itching. Ceramide and natural oil‐based moisturizers can improve skin hydration and barrier repair, but their effects on lipid networks and microbiome interactions have not been well understood.

A multicenter, randomized, self‐controlled study was conducted to assess the efficacy of a body lotion formulated with ceramides and natural oils in the management of xerosis. The lotion was applied daily to one leg for 4 weeks, with the other leg as a control. Skin radiance, skin scaliness, skin smoothness, stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss, and pH were measured at various intervals. Lipidomics and microbiomics analyses evaluated changes in lipid metabolism and microbial structure.

The body lotion enhanced skin hydration, radiance, and smoothness, while decreasing TEWL and scaling. Lipidomics showed higher levels of essential lipids in the treatment group. Microbiome analysis revealed increased diversity, with more Firmicutes and Cutibacterium and less Proteobacteria, indicating improved skin barrier and microbial balance.

This body lotion effectively alleviates dryness, significantly improving skin hydration, barrier function, and texture. It achieves these benefits by restoring the skin's lipid balance and optimizing the microbial community, with lipid‐microbiome crosstalk identified as a key mechanism. This multi‐omics insight provides a foundation for the targeted management of dry skin.