Novel yeast extract is superior to colloidal oatmeal in providing rapid itch relief

Abstract Background Approximately, 13.5% of the population suffers from chronic itch. Many cosmetic and pharmaceutical treatments for itch are available; however, cosmetic treatments are not reliably effective and most pharmaceutical formulations carry the risk of adverse events with chronic use. Aims Previously, we have reported a novel extraction process of Saccharomyces cerevisiae , that is, Baker's yeast. The extract obtained from the novel process demonstrates superior anti‐itch properties compared to other yeast extracts. In our previous study, we demonstrated that, after 30 minutes, the extract significantly reduced itch when compared to a placebo lotion ( P = .002). Methods In the present study we conducted a head‐to‐head comparison with the leading cosmetic itch product: lotion containing colloidal oatmeal (CO). A randomized double‐blinded study of 60 patients was conducted. Results In our study, the novel yeast extract was vastly superior to the CO containing lotion (Aveeno™ Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream). We saw statistically significant difference in the reduction of itch ( P = .0001) using the novel yeast extract vs the CO lotion. Additionally, the yeast extract was shown to relieve itch in as little as one minute after application. Conclusion The novel yeast extract rapidly relieves itch and is superior to the cosmetic market leader, CO lotion.