Assessment of the Impact of a Cosmetic Product with Sheep Colostrum on Acne Skin

Abstract

Colostrum, the first secretion of mammalian breasts after giving birth, contains a wealth of components believed to have a beneficial effect on human skin, including lactoferrin, immunoglobulin (Ig)A, beta-carotene, fat-soluble vitamins, and zinc. The present study examines the effect of a cosmetic preparation containing 15% lyophilisate of sheep colostrum on acne skin. A group of 27 volunteers with mild or moderate acne applied the cream twice a day for eight weeks. Before and after using the cream, the level of skin hydration, sebum level, and TEWL were measured using a standardized Courage–Khazaka Multi Probe Adapter. The participants also completed a survey rating the effects of using the cosmetic preparation. Regular application of the cream with sheep colostrum resulted in an objective improvement in hydration and TEWL and a reduction in sebum; this is extremely desirable for acne-prone skin. Three-quarters of the participants reported that the tested cream reduced acne lesions (blackheads, papules, pustules, and erythema) by around 40%. Moreover, the cosmetic preparation improved hydration by 40% and reduced seborrhea by 29% in 82% of subjects and kept the skin in good condition in 90%. As the cream improves the hydrobarrier and overall condition of the skin, it could serve as an addition to local acne treatment, e.g., with retinoids.