New cosmetic emulsions for dry skin.

The aim of this study was to formulate stable water-in-oil (w/o) emulsions containing oils with a high percentage of fatty acids, sterols, vitamins, cholesterol, and ceramides in order to improve topical treatment of dry skin conditions. Two w/o emulsions were developed and physicochemical characterized. The biological effects of the formulations were assessed on the volar surface of the human foreharm over 28 days. The results obtained showed that areas treated by either cream were significantly different from the control area, as assessed by epidermal capacitance and sebometry over the 28 days. Treatment with cream containing ceramides presented higher values of sebometry and corneometry. According to the sensory evaluation performed, both creams were found to have good acceptability.