eczema 3^®: Petroleum-Free, Ceramide-Rich Skin Barrier Repair Cream

Water makes up more than 60% of the content of human skin. Under normal conditions, the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of our skin’s epidermis) acquires most of its moisture from the fluids that bathe the underlying layers of the skin. Sweat glands also contribute a small amount of moisture. The stratum corneum works hard trying to maintain its water content; however, it, ultimately, loses moisture through evaporation, which is strongly influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and air flow.

When it comes to moisturizing the stratum corneum, hydrating (i.e. adding water) is more important than adding oil. Don’t believe us? Try this simple experiment: Take two cuttings of skin from a callus from the heel or ball of your foot; place them both on a dish and allow them both to desiccate (dry out) over a few days, remaining exposed to the air. Next, soak one of the skin samples in olive oil, and soak the other in water. Even after just a few hours, the difference should be obvious with the water-soaked skin sample becoming increasingly softer and more pliable.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

The main ingredient of Eczema3 is purified water. There is no better compound for effectively moisturizing your skin and helping to restore the skin barrier.

Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) seed oil comes from a tiny white flowering plant that flourishes in marshy regions of Northern California, Oregon, and Vancouver. When it blooms, it is said to resemble sea foam – hence its name. Meadowfoam seed oil is a special plant oil because its chemical composition (it contains over 98% long chain fatty acids, the building blocks of fats and oils) makes it extremely stable. It also contains vitamin E, which functions as a natural antioxidant.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Meadowfoam seed oil functions in the Eczema3 formulation as a non-greasy, ultra-moisturizing oil that effectively penetrates the stratum corneum and helps restore skin barrier function. It also helps stabilize the other ingredients in the formulation.

This is a natural emulsifier and stabilizer made from candelilla wax, jojoba seed wax, and rice bran wax. It is classified chemically as a “transester” because the ingredients contain three different compounds that are chemically combined to create a new ingredient.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

This unique combination brings an ultra-soft feel and cushion-lile touch to our Eczema3 barrier repair cream. This mixture also helps rehydrate the skin as it can retain 6 times its own weight in water.

Also known as glycerol monostearate, glyceryl stearate is formed by attaching glycerin molecules to stearic acid, a fatty acid. It is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found in nature. Consistency-wise, it forms a waxy, whitish-colored solid that gives some thickness to the formulation. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping to keep “oil” and “water” from separating. Its safety is well-known, and it has even been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a food additive.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Glyceryl stearate’s properties help to form a protective barrier on the skin that helps to prevent moisture loss. We also use it to thicken our Eczema3 formulation.

Cetearyl alcohol is a so-called “fatty alcohol” consisting of cetyl and stearyl alcohol in combination. Chemically speaking, it is composed of a long oil-soluble portion. Its chemical properties allow it to function as a non-drying, non-irritating stabilizer for “oil and water” mixes, which would otherwise want to separate. It also adds some viscosity (thickness) to the formulation, imparting an emollient feel on the skin. Cetearly alcohol is considered to be very safe and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has even approved it as a food additive.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Cetearyl alcohol is a “multi-tasker” in our Eczema3 formulation, functioning as an emulsion stabilizer that keeps our formulation from separating. Its added viscosity helps to thicken the Eczema3 formulation, making it easier to spread over large skin surfaces.

This plant-derived ingredient is constituted by the reaction of lactic acid and stearic acid and conversion to sodium salts. It does not dissolve in water, and it is hygroscopic.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Sodium stearoyl lactylate functions as an effective humectant in the Eczema3 formulation, helping the skin to stay soft and pliable. We also use it as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and surfactant.

Biosaccharide gum-1 is a polysaccharide obtained by microbial fermentation from the natural sugar, sorbitol, produced by fermenting plants. It is a very large molecule with a high molecular weight.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Biosaccharide gum-1 provides “double duty” in our Eczema3 formulation. First, it serves as a filmogenic with moisturizing properties for skin barrier repair and protection. Second, it helps reduce inflammatory markers in the skin and helps regulate the skin barrier via interaction of its glycan structure with keratinocytes in the stratum corneum.

Also referred to as glycerol or glycerine, glycerin is a naturally occurring organic compound and component of many lipids, including glycerides. It is sweet-tasting and is odorless and colorless. With its three hydroxyl groups, glycerin is highly hygroscopic, meaning it has a special ability to attract and hold water molecules. It is also purported to be mildly antimicrobial. Consequently, glycerin serves as an ideal, non-toxic humectant, and is even approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a food additive.

Glycerin may be of animal or vegetable (usually soybeans) origin. Importantly, we only use vegetable-based glycerin in our products.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Because of its unique chemical properties, Eczema3 utilizes glycerine to help gently prime and cleanse the skin, while pulling huge volumes of water into the stratum corneum to help keep it moisturized and healthy.

Also known as 1-hexadecanol and palmityl alcohol, cetyl alcohol is derived from vegetable oils. It is an organic compound and is chemically classified as a fatty alcohol. Fatty alcohols are a hybrid between alcohols and fatty acids or oils. Fatty alcohols do not “dry” the skin like rubbing alcohol or ethanol would do; to the contrary, they help protect the skin from moisture loss and help to reinforce the skin barrier against allergens and microbial (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) invasion. Cetyl alcohol is also a primary ingredient in cetearyl alcohol.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Cetyl alcohol is a “multi-tasker” in our Eczema3 formulation, functioning as an emollient that helps to add additional layers of protection to the stratum corneum and help prevent transepidermal water loss. We also use it to soften and soothe the skin and to improve viscosity of the formulation.

Also known as 1,3-propanediol, propanediol is a glycol that is used primarily as an alternative to propylene glycol.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We mainly use propanediol as a texture enhancer for our Eczema3 formulation. It also functions as a humectant, helping to attract and retain water into the skin.

Saccharide isomerate is a plant-derived water-binding agent that mimics the natural carbohydrate fraction in the skin’s epidermis. It is known for its extended binding duration, which helps it serve as a longer-lasting humectant and barrier protectant.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We use saccharide isomerate as a longer-lasting humectant and barrier repair agent.

Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil is a non-volatile plant oil with a high linoleic acid content. Linoleic acid is the major lipid that converts to arachidonic acid, which leads to prostaglandin E2, an inflammatory modulator. It is the high linoleic acid content, primarily, that helps drive the skin’s own synthesis of lipids, including ceramides, that are vital to the skin barrier.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We use Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil in our Eczema3 formulation as an emollient and as an antioxidant. In the world of pediatric dermatology, this compound has also been specifically shown to provide a calming effect on inflamed skin of newborns, helping to restore and retain skin barrier function.

Ascorbyl palmitate is a highly bioavailable, fat-soluble form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C directly functions in collagen synthesis within the dermis.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Ascorbyl palmitate functions as a free radical scavenger and potent antioxidant in our Eczema3 formulation.

Tocopherols are a class of organic chemical compounds that may be referred to as “vitamin E.” This class of fat-soluble compounds functions as a potent antioxidant, helping to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage. Another function is to help the skin retain moisture by improving water-binding capacity within the stratum corneum.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Tocopherols are used in our Eczema3 formulation for their ability to protect the skin from free radical damage and to strengthen and maintain the barrier function of the stratum corneum.

Avena Sativa, also known as oat, is a species of grain plant grown for its seed. The active components in oat kernel oil include avenanthramides, a group of active polyphenol antioxidants known to be anti-inflammatory in nature, and beta glucans, known for their collagen stimulating potential. Avena sativa oil also has a high concentration of linoleic acid, a key protector of skin barrier function. It is rich in antioxidants, such as tocopherols and tocotrienols, which protect the skin’s lipid barrier.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Eczema3 combines a proprietary blend of water, glycerin, and Avena Sativa kernel extract to act as an anti-histaminic and anti-inflammatory.

Also known as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), dimethicone is a synthetically derived silicon-based polymer. Dimethicone does not penetrate the stratum corneum. Instead, it remains atop of the skin, helping to “fill in” cracks and crevices and functioning as a skin protectant. It is occlusive, helping to protect against transepidermal water loss. Its inherent emollient properties also help soothe inflamed skin without leaving behind a greasy residue.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Eczema3 utilizes dimethicone as an “active ingredient” that affords the formulation its FDA-approved skin protectant properties.

Also known as 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrolite 6 is a colorless liquid that dissolves readily in water. It is stable and effective over a wide pH and temperature range, and it does not affect the stability of emulsions like longer chain alkanediols. Consequently, it is utilized primarily as a moisturizer and as an antimicrobial.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Hydrolite 6 is a versatile, safe, and effective moisturizer and preservative that helps eliminate any need for parabens, isothiazolinones, and phenoxyethanol.

Also known as hexadecenoic acid, palmitic acid is an abundant saturated fatty acid that serves as a major constituent of the stratum corneum. It helps to protect the skin from transepidermal water loss and also helps to maintain the skin’s natural barrier function against microbes and allergens.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize palmitic acid as an emulsifier and to help trap and retain moisture in the skin.

Also known as octadecanoic acid, stearic acid is a wax-like, saturated fatty acid with an 18 carbon chain. It is an important component of stratum corneum lipids. Fatty acids are the building blocks for fats and oils. Unlike “acids,” fatty acids tend to be hydrating to the skin.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize stearic acid as an emulsifier and to help trap and retain moisture in the skin.

Also known as 1,2-octanediol, caprylyl glycol is an alcohol derived from caprylic acid, an 8-carbon saturated fatty acid. It is a colorless liquid with a slightly sweet scent. It is used as an outstanding humectant, pulling water into the skin to help hold moisture where it is needed. It is purported to have antimicrobial properties, which explains why it is also utilized as a preservative to help stabilize skincare formulations.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Eczema3 utilizes caprylyl glycol mainly as a humectant, pulling water into the stratum corneum to help hydrate the epidermis and restore barrier function. We also take advantage of its antimicrobial properties, utilizing it as a preservative that prevents contamination of our formulation after the bottle has been opened to the air.

Also referred to as Octanohydroxamic acid or caprylohydroxamic acid, caprylhydroxamic acid is an amino acid that is primarily utilized as a preservative. Somewhat uniquely, it functions very well at neutral pH levels, which makes it ideal for “sensitive skin” formulations. It also acts as a chelating agent of iron ions, which is critical since low iron environments correlate to lower levels of mold growth.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

In specific combination with other Eczema3 ingredients, caprylhydroxamic acid functions as a gentle preservative, allowing us to avoid having to include traditional preservatives such as parabens, isothiazolinones, and formaldehyde donors.

Sold under the name AD-Resyl® this patented active molecule is rich in fructosans from the Ophiopogon japonicus plant. The parent company that sells this specific derivation, SILAB Softcare, has demonstrated its potential to limit adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus and prolong periods of remission of atopic dermatitis patients after corticosteroid therapy. Developed through in vitro and in vivo models, SILAB Softcare reports that AD-Resyl® restores homeostasis in atopic skin by targeting its four main anomalies: (1) Skin barrier restored; (2) inflammation reduced; (3) neuronal hyperreactivity reduced; and (4) microbiota equilibrated.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize AD-Resyl® as an innovative constituent of our anti-inflammatory Eczema3 formulation.

Maltodextrin is a plant-based polysaccharide, composed of long chains of sugar units bound together by glycosidic linkages.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Our Eczema3 formulation relies on maltodextrin to support the natural moisturizing factors found within the epidermis. It also functions to improve the texture of the formulation itself, helping to create a cushion-like texture that helps our formulation feel lighter and spread more evenly over the skin.

A form of vitamin B3 (niacin), niacinamide plays various functions in the skin. As an antioxidant, it helps reduce the number of free radicals generated by oxidative stress in the skin. Niacinamide has also been reported to help with keratinocyte differentiation and to increase the synthesis of ceramides and lipids that play a crucial structural and functional integrity role in the epidermis. It has also been demonstrated to inhibit nuclear factor kappa (Nf-kB), helping to prevent degranulation of mast cells, inhibiting leukocyte migration into the skin, and reducing production of a variety of inflammatory cytokines including IL-1 and IL-12.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Niacinamide functions as a potent free radical scavenger and for its reported broad anti-inflammatory activity. We also rely on it to help enhance barrier function.

Sodium lauroyl lactylate forms as a consequence of a reaction between lauric acid and lactic acid. Lauric acid is derived from plants and has a 12-carbon atom chain, making it a “medium-chain” saturated fatty acid. Fatty acids form the building block of fats and oils. Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that can be obtained from milk. Sodium lauroyl lactylate is the sodium salt that forms when these two compounds react. It is a natural surfactant, with the ability to lower the surface tension between two substances. That characteristic, coupled with its ability to produce a soft, light foam, allows it to wash oil and dirt away easily and gently. It also functions as an emulsifier, keeping “oil” and “water” components from separating.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Sodium lauroyl lactylate helps improve the texture and feel of the overall Eczema3 formulation. Additionally, its sodium backbone allows it to penetrate the stratum corneum and form a protective barrier that minimizes transepidermal water loss.

Also known as ceramide 3 and N-stearoyl phytosphingosine, ceramide NP is a member of a group of molecules called ceramides, which are a major lipid component in the stratum corneum of human skin. It consists of a phytosphingosine base and stearic acid, which is a saturated fatty acid.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Research has demonstrated that patients with eczema tend to have a deficiency of ceramides in their skin. Our Eczema3 formulation strategically combines Ceramide NP with Ceramide EOP to work synergistically to improve overall skin barrier function.

Also known as ceramide 6 and alpha-hydroxy-N-stearoylphtosphingosine, ceramide AP is a member of a group of molecules called ceramides, which are a major lipid component in the stratum corneum of human skin.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Research has demonstrated that patients with eczema tend to have a deficiency of ceramides in their skin. Our Eczema3 formulation adds this missing ceramide back so that barrier function can be better restored.

Phytosphingosine is a lipid occurring naturally in the stratum corneum, both in its free form as well as part of the major fraction of ceramides. Chemically, it is classified as a sphingoid base, a fundamental building block of more complex sphingolipids.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize phytosphingosine in Eczema3 for its ability to help prevent disruption of the skin barrier. We also take advantage of the fact that phytosphingosine provides a skin moisturizing effect, helping to modulate filaggrin metabolic pathways that, in total, help maintain skin barrier function.

Cholesterol is a sterol, which is a type of lipid molecule essential for maintaining cell membrane structural integrity and fluidity. It is utilized mainly for its ability to repair the skin’s natural barrier function.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We rely on cholesterol in our Eczema3 formulation mainly to help restore barrier function and as an emulsifier, helping to keep “oil” and “water” components from separating.

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide derived from the bacteria, Xanthomonas campestris. It is used to bind and thicken formulations and forms a gel when added to water. It also functions as an emulsifier.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Xanthan gum helps improve the texture and feel of our Eczema3 formulation. We also utilize it as an emulsifier, helping to keep “oil” and “water” components from separating.

Carbomer is the more common name for polyacrylic acid (PAA). This ingredient is actually a group of high molecular weight (i.e., large molecule) polymers of acrylic acid. Carbomer’s main utility is due to its ability to “swell” in the presence of water at neutral pH. This is due to the loss of protons from many of the molecule’s side chains. The overall effect is that carbomer acquires a negative electrical charge, allowing it to attract and retain water and “plumping” it in size.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Carbomer is utilized in our Eczema3 formulation as a texture enhancer, helping to give it a feel that is more like a light, cushiony gel. Additionally, carbomer has some utility as an emulsifier, helping to keep our formulation from separating into its “oil” and “water” components.

Also known as ceramide 1, ceramide EOP is a member of a group of molecules called ceramides, which are a major lipid component in the stratum corneum of human skin. “EOP” refers to the specific structure of this ceramide: “E” indicates that there is an ester linked fatty acid; “O” indicates that omega hydroxy fatty acid is the amide-linked fatty acid; and “P” refers to the phytosphingosine base.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Research has demonstrated that patients with eczema tend to have a deficiency of ceramides in their skin. Our Eczema3 formulation strategically combines Ceramide EOP with Ceramide NP to work synergistically to improve overall skin barrier function.

Sodium PCA is the sodium salt form of the amino acid, proline (also known as pyroglutamic acid). The salt form of this compound is what permits it to be water-soluble. It is a naturally-occurring ingredient that is found in all living cells. Within the stratum corneum, sodium PCA serves as a major constituent of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor, helping to keep the epidermis hydrated and healthy.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize sodium PCA primarily as a potent humectant that is capable of drawing large volumes of water into the skin.

Also known as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, disodium EDTA is a water-soluble chelator that binds mineral ions and inactivates them. This is the basis for disodium EDTA’s use as a preservative as it helps prevent the growth of biofilms.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize disodium EDTA as a preservative in our Eczema3 formulation, helping to ensure that contamination from microbes does not occur.

Avena Sativa, also known as oat, is a species of grain plant grown for its seed. The flour is made by the ultra-fine grinding of insoluble flour and bran, which allows it to become “colloidal.” The active components in oat kernel flour include avenanthramides, a group of active polyphenol antioxidants known to be anti-inflammatory in nature, and beta glucans, known for their collagen stimulating potential. Avena sativa flour also has a high concentration of linoleic acid, a key protector of skin barrier function. It is rich in antioxidants, such as tocopherols and tocotrienols, which protect the skin’s lipid barrier.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

We utilize Avena sativa colloidal flour as an “active ingredient” that affords the formulation its FDA-approved skin protectant properties.

Sodium hyaluronate is the water-soluble, more stable sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid. It belongs to a class of compounds called glycosaminoglycans, which are negatively-charged, long polysaccharide (sugar) molecules composed of amino acids and uronic acid. Because of their negative charges, these molecules attract sodium and potassium very efficiently, allowing them to absorb and retain large volumes of water.

Why is it in our science-based pediatric formulation?

Sodium hyaluronate plays a critical role in our Eczema3 formulation, functioning as a potent humectant that attracts and retains water within the stratum corneum.