Natural peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha agonist cream demonstrates similar therapeutic response to topical steroids in atopic dermatitis.

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) requires permanent skin care.

Objective: A cream containing 2% SO (sunflower oleodistillate), with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) agonist properties, has been compared to a topical steroid (hydrocortisone butyro-propionate 1 mg/g).

Methods: An open, randomized study included two groups of 40 children (aged 3 months to 4 years). Group A applied the steroid and group B applied the 2% SO cream, twice a day. SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis) was determined at D0, D7 and D21 and quality of life (QoL) at D0 and D21.

Results: SCORAD was similar at D0 (37.2 versus 36.9), D7 (18.9 versus 19.2) (-49% and -48%) and D21 (11 versus 9.4) (-70% and -75%) (p < 0.01 versus D0). The Infant Dermatitis Quality of Life and Dermatitis Family Impact Questionnaire improved similarly by 65%/67% in group A and 72%/75% in group B at D21 (p < 0.01 versus D0).

Conclusion: A 2% SO cream has demonstrated therapeutic properties, using clinical scores and QoL, comparable to those of a topical steroid.