A Global Perspective on the Treatment and Maintenance of Mature Skin Using Gentle Cleansers and Moisturizers

Xerosis (dry skin) is very common in people over 50. It can seriously affect quality of life through stigma, itching (pruritus) and possible complications. This course introduces the term mature xerosis for age-related xerosis in people over 50, replacing the older term senile xerosis.

Xerosis is caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors that affect how well the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) holds water and how well the skin barrier works. Skincare that restores the barrier is central to treatment. It also helps maintain skin health and stop the condition getting worse. Many suitable moisturizers and cleansers are available, but patients with mature xerosis often don't use them enough.

A panel of eight dermatologists from around the world reviewed what makes xerosis different in mature skin and what to consider when choosing skincare to prevent, treat and maintain it. Drawing on a literature review and their clinical experience, the panel agreed five statements with practical recommendations for dermatologists and other healthcare providers. The key messages are:

  • The burden of xerosis in mature skin needs more recognition
  • Gentle cleansers and ceramide-containing moisturizers that restore the skin barrier are essential to management
  • These products reduce the signs and symptoms of xerosis, including itching

Target Audience

Healthcare Professionals

Learning Objectives

  • Describe the complex factors that contribute to mature xerosis and its associated pruritus in the aging population
  • Recognize why keeping a healthy skin barrier matters in mature skin
  • Identify how age-related skin changes make skin more vulnerable, and how to protect against this
  • Apply effective strategies to diagnose and manage xerosis, including prescription therapy when needed

Activity Disclosure

This educational activity is supported by an independent medical educational grant from L’Oréal.

Course summary

Available credit: 
  • 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™
Course opens: 
04/11/2025
Course expires: 
04/10/2028
Cost:
$0.00
Rating: 
0
Andrew F. Alexis M.D., MPH

Andrew F. Alexis M.D., MPH

Andrew F. Alexis M.D., MPH discloses the following: Support from CeraVe International for the research of this project and consultancy fees for attending the meeting

This activity underwent peer review in line with the standards of editorial integrity and publication ethics. Conflicts of interest have been identified and resolved in accordance with John Wiley and Sons, Inc.’s Policy on Activity Disclosure and Conflict of Interest.

John Wiley & Sons, Inc. is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

John Wiley and Sons, Inc. designates this journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. For information on applicability and acceptance of continuing medical education credit for this activity, please consult your professional licensing board.

This activity is designed to be completed within 1 hour. To successfully earn credit, participants must complete the activity during the valid credit period, which is up to three years from initial publication. Additionally, up to 3 attempts and a score of 70% or better is needed to pass the post test and claim CC credit. [ACGME competency/CC category: Medical Knowledge].

Available Credit

  • 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™

Price

Cost:
$0.00
Please login or register to take this course.