Topical composition and method for enhancing lipid barrier synthesis

A method for increasing ceramide synthesis in the skin which comprises applying to the skin, for a time sufficient to increase ceramide synthesis, an amount of a substantially pure cafestol compound effective to increase the production of ceramide by at least 1%.

A method for improving skin condition which comprises applying to the skin, for a time sufficient to increase strength of the lipid barrier, a topical composition comprising as an active component an amount of a substantially pure cafestol compound effective in increasing strength of the lipid barrier, as measurable by a reduction in transepidermal water loss, in combination with a cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

A method for treatment or prevention of dry skin conditions which comprises applying to the skin, for a time sufficient to increase strength of the lipid barrier, a topical composition comprising as an active component an amount of a substantially pure cafestol compound effective in increasing strength of the lipid barrier, as measurable by a reduction in transepidermal water loss, in combination with a cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

A method for treating skin conditions associated with a defective or diminished lipid barrier which comprises applying to the skin, for a time sufficient to increase the strength of the lipid barrier, a topical composition comprising as an active component an amount of a substantially pure cafestol compound effective in increasing strength of the lipid barrier, as measurable by a reduction in transepidermal water loss, in combination with a cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.