A systematic review of lactoferrin use in dermatology

ABSTRACT

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein widely present in mammalian secretions and possesses documented protective effects, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. While its therapeutic use is being investigated for a myriad of diseases, there is increasing interest in its application for skin disease. Our objective was to systematically review the clinical evidence for the use and efficacy of lactoferrin for the treatment of dermatological conditions. Pubmed and Embase databases were searched for clinical studies evaluating lactoferrin for dermatological conditions. A total of six studies were reviewed. Of the current clinical trials, there is encouraging evidence to suggest that lactoferrin may be beneficial in acne, psoriasis, and diabetic ulcerations. Although the current evidence is promising, further research is necessary to establish lactoferrin as complementary therapy in the clinical setting.

KEYWORDS:

• Alternative
• skin
• milk
• acne
• psoriasis
• ulcer

Acknowledgment

The authors thank Bruce Abbott for his assistance in conducting the systematic searches.

Funding

Ms. Hassoun received financial support from a UC Davis Medical Student Research Fellowship program.