Effects of Bleach and Water Baths on Skin Barrier Function in Atopic Dermatitis | PracticeUpdate

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Published in Dermatology

Journal Scan / Research · February 18, 2016

Effects of Bleach and Water Baths on Skin Barrier Function in Atopic Dermatitis

The British Journal of Dermatology

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• This study compares bleach baths with water baths on skin barrier function in atopic dermatitis using a split-body method as control. Neither bleach baths nor tap water baths were shown to disrupt barrier function. There was no difference observed in mean hydration, transepidermal water loss, and pH status between tap water and bleach baths. No discomfort was reported with either method. 

• Previous studies have shown bleach baths to significantly improve atopic dermatitis severity, and this study emphasizes the safety and tolerability of bleach baths. 

– Anna Wile, MD

Abstract

This abstract is available on the publisher's site.

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Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with defective epidermal barrier function, characterized by decreased stratum corneum (SC) hydration, and increased TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and pH. Staphylococcus aureus (SA) skin colonization is present in nearly all cases of AD exacerbation and correlates with disease severity, suggesting an infection – inflammation cycle. The use of sodium hypochlorite (bleach) bath alone and as an adjunct to intranasal mupirocin ointment is associated with reduction in AD severity, and decreases annual skin infection cases by ten-fold. In a Cochrane review on various interventions to reduce SA colonization, including oral antibiotics, topical steroids and antibiotic ointments, only bleach bath showed a significant improvement in AD severity.

Benjamin Hidalgo-Matlock

Skin Care Physicians of Costa Rica

4000-1054

2208-8206

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