Researchers have introduced a new patch aimed at making psoriasis treatment simpler and more effective. This innovative method could also be beneficial for treating other inflammatory skin disorders.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have devised a patch that facilitates a more convenient and productive approach to treating psoriasis. This technique may also prove useful for addressing other inflammatory skin conditions.
About four to five percent of the Danish populace suffers from psoriasis, a prevalent skin issue globally. This inflammatory disorder displays as a red rash covered with white scales, which may differ in appearance, size, and severity.
Currently, psoriasis patients have various treatment choices, with creams and ointments being the most frequently used. However, the need to apply these creams multiple times a day can lead to greasy skin, causing many patients to struggle with consistent use—a critical aspect for effective treatment.
To address this challenge, researchers at the University of Copenhagen have created a prototype patch that may mitigate these issues.
“We have designed a dry patch that contains active ingredients for psoriasis treatment and requires application just once a day. It has the potential to enhance the comfort level for patients dealing with psoriasis,” states Associate Professor Andrea Heinz from the Department of Pharmacy, who is the lead author on a series of studies assessing the patch’s effectiveness in treating psoriasis.
One patch with multiple uses
This innovative patch is engineered to include two active ingredients that are released onto the skin at different rates.
“This is truly ingenious, as psoriasis treatment often necessitates more than one product. The two ingredients are liberated in a controlled manner and at distinct rates, each serving a different purpose: Salicylic acid is discharged immediately to eliminate the dead skin cells that accumulate, while hydrocortisone addresses skin inflammation, which requires more time,” explains Anna-Lena Gürtler, the first author of the studies, before adding:
“We have tested the prototype on pig skin and human skin cells, comparing the results to conventional creams and ointments available at pharmacies. Our findings indicate that the patch is equally effective as standard treatments.”
Potential for treating additional conditions
The researchers utilized a technique called electrospinning to create the patch, which involves applying high voltage to a polymer solution to generate synthetic nanofibers. These fibers are then fashioned into a mat that can be adhered to the skin like a bandage.
While the researchers continue to refine the patch, further studies, product development, and clinical trials are necessary before it can be made available for everyday use. Nevertheless, Andrea Heinz believes that the patch holds significant promise beyond just treating psoriasis:
“A patch with active ingredients could serve as a valuable alternative to creams and ointments for other inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic eczema. It might also prove beneficial for facilitating wound healing.”
