Efficacy of a Coffee Peel and Patchouli Oil Combination Cream Compared With Urea in Xerosis Cutis: A Double‐Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Xerosis cutis is a common skin disorder associated with impaired epidermal barrier function, reduced hydration, and symptoms such as scaling and pruritus. Plant‐based topical therapies are increasingly explored as alternatives to conventional moisturizers. Methods In this double‐blind randomized controlled trial, 70 patients with mild‐to‐severe xerosis cutis were randomized to receive either a combination cream containing Gayo Arabica coffee bean peel extract and Acehnese patchouli oil (KKAN) or a 10% urea cream. Treatments were applied twice daily for 4 weeks, with follow‐up assessments conducted up to Week 6. Safety was evaluated by patch testing. Efficacy was assessed using transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, Overall Dry Skin Score (ODSS), itch intensity (VAS), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and dermoscopic scaling. Results Both treatments were well tolerated, and baseline characteristics were comparable. The KKAN group showed a significantly greater reduction in TEWL at Week 2. Skin hydration was significantly higher in the KKAN group at Week 4. Improvements in ODSS occurred in both groups without significant intergroup differences. Greater reductions in pruritus and dermoscopic scaling were observed in the KKAN group, along with significantly improved DLQI scores at Week 6. Conclusion The KKAN cream is a safe and effective topical therapy for xerosis cutis, demonstrating efficacy comparable to 10% urea cream with advantages in early barrier improvement, pruritus reduction, dermoscopic outcomes, and quality of life. Trial Registration: NCT07360639