Improving skin health to lower inflammation in older adults

A pilot trial of skin barrier restoration to reduce systemic inflammation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11055443

This study is looking at how using a special moisturizing cream or ointment can help improve skin health and reduce inflammation in older adults aged 70 and up, and we want to hear how easy and comfortable it is for you to use these products over eight weeks.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055443 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how restoring the skin barrier can help reduce systemic inflammation in older adults, a condition known as inflammageing. The study will involve applying a ceramide moisturizing cream or petrolatum ointment to participants aged 70 and older for eight weeks, with a focus on measuring changes in skin barrier function and inflammatory markers. Participants will also provide feedback on the acceptability and feasibility of using these moisturizers. The goal is to understand the relationship between skin health and overall inflammation in aging individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 70 years and above who may be experiencing age-related skin issues and inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 70 or those without skin barrier issues or systemic inflammation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing inflammation and improving health outcomes in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using skin barrier restoration techniques to improve health outcomes in older populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.