Elasticity Improvement and Water Loss Prevention in Vulvar Skin by Topical Nonhormonal Moisturizer

Background

Postmenopausal vulvovaginal symptoms due to estrogen depletion are very common. Many women prefer over‐the‐counter (OTC), Nonhormonal products containing few or no additives.

Objectives

We investigated the effect of a topical Nonhormonal moisturizer containing just mineral oil, white beeswax, emollients, and water.

Methods

Vulvar skin on 20 menopausal, asymptomatic women were measured before treatment with topical nonhormonal moisturizer, after one application, and after application twice daily for 7 days. Trans epidermal water loss (TEWL), elasticity, pH, and erythema were all measured on the inside of labium majus.

Results

The moisturizer was well absorbed by the skin (90%). TEWL decreased significantly by up to 51% (p = 0.00021). Elasticity increased up to 21% compared to baseline measurements (p = 0.0014). No objective changes in erythema or pH were observed after 1 week (p > 0.13). The asymptomatic women reported both positive and negative effects, the latter mainly greasiness. In symptomatic women the moisturizer may relieve dry vulvar skin. Improved elasticity may reduce irritation, laceration and bruising during physical and sexual activity.

Conclusions

The tested nonhormonal moisturizer showed pronounced elasticity improvement and water loss prevention in vulvar skin with no clinically relevant side effects. The study protocol was approved by the Danish Research Ethics Committees (no. H23030347).

Trial Registration: H23030347.