Hydrolipidic film

The hydrolipidic film is a complex, thin emulsion of water and lipids that covers the entire surface of the human skin, acting as the primary interface between the body and the external environment (StatPearls, Physiology, Skin Barrier, 2023). It is composed primarily of sebum from sebaceous glands, sweat from eccrine glands, and natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) derived from the breakdown of filaggrin (Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, The Skin Barrier in Healthy and Diseased State, 2012). This film serves a critical biological role by maintaining the skin's acidic pH, often referred to as the acid mantle, which inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms (PubMed, The Acid Mantle: A Review, 2018). Furthermore, it regulates skin hydration by preventing excessive transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and providing essential lubrication to the stratum corneum (International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Skin Hydration and Barrier Function, 2020). In various dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and xerosis, the hydrolipidic film is often compromised or depleted (NIH, Atopic Dermatitis: Genetics and the Skin Barrier, 2021). Therapeutic interventions typically focus on barrier repair using topical agents like emollients, humectants, and occlusives that aim to mimic or replenish the natural components of the film to restore skin integrity and physiological function (American Academy of Dermatology, Moisturizers: What They Are and How They Work, 2022).

Other names

Acid mantleSkin barrierHydrolipidic layerSurface film

Restoration of barrier integrity through occlusion, humectancy, and lipid replenishment.