A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Topical Combination Serum for the Improvement of Aged Skin

December 2023 | Volume 22 | Issue 12 | 1204 | Copyright © December 2023


Published online November 15, 2023

Michael H Gold

Gold Skin Care Center, Tennessee Clinical Research Center, Nashville, TN

Abstract
Background: With intrinsic aging, the epidermis becomes thinner and fine wrinkles appear. Extrinsic aging, or photoaging, is characterized by deep wrinkles, skin laxity, and hyperpigmentation.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel combination serum with retinol, hyaluronic acid, and trichloroacetic acid (Test Product) for the improvement of aged facial skin.
Methods: Female subjects (n=22) enrolled in the single-site, open-label, pilot study. Subjects had mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles and mild to moderate photodamage. Subjects applied the Test Product, cleanser, and moisturizer-sunscreen combo once daily to the face during the 12-week study. Radiance, skin tone, skin smoothness, skin texture, red/blotchy, dryness, overall appearance, skin quality, and tolerance were evaluated at each visit.
Results: Skin radiance, tone, smoothness, texture, and overall appearance improved significantly with continued use of the Test Product up to week 12. Subjective improvement was significant for texture, tone, glow, smoothness, youthful appearance, pores, and satisfaction. More than half of subjects showed improvement in skin elasticity, redness/broken capillaries, and dryness. The treatment was well tolerated.
Conclusions: The combination serum with retinol, hyaluronic acid, and trichloroacetic acid has been shown to improve aged facial skin and is well tolerated when used daily for up to week 12.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(12):1204-1209. doi:10.36849/JDD.6835

INTRODUCTION

With aging, the natural rejuvenation process of human skin decelerates and the skin becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic.1 Manifestations include wrinkles, discoloration, uneven texture, and alterations in pore size. Hyaluronic acid (HA) and collagen are also reduced in the dermal matrix.2

Intrinsic aging occurs with advancing age; the epidermis becomes thinner and fine wrinkles appear. Extrinsic aging, or photoaging, is due to chronic sun exposure and is characterized by deep wrinkles, skin laxity, and hyperpigmentation. The skin becomes coarse, the epidermis thickens, and then becomes thinner. There is also laxity, sallowness, wrinkles, irregular hyperpigmentation, lentigines, and telangiectasias. With either type of aging, wrinkles and reduced elasticity are typical manifestations and the result of progressive atrophy of the dermis.3 

A youth-engaging skin serum (Y.E.S.S.®, Induction Therapies, Louisville, KY) is a novel collagen-building, tone-improving product with all-trans retinol, HA, and trichloroacetic acid (TCA) designed for the treatment of skin aging, discoloration, and hydration. Squalene and shea butter are also present. 

The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this Test Product for the improvement of (1) fine lines and wrinkles, (2) appearance of discoloration, and (3) uneven texture of facial skin after week 12 of use. The secondary objective was to assess the improvement of moisture level and pore size during the same period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects
Female subjects (n=22) aged 41 to 60 years (mean SD = 53.3 ± 5.4) and Fitzpatrick skin types II (n=12), III (n=8), and IV (n=2)
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