INTRODUCTION
Uneven skin tone is a significant beauty concern for individuals across all types of Fitzpatrick skin types and ethnic heritages, although it may be a more prominent concern for those with more darkly pigmented skin.1,2 Even skin color is associated with attractiveness and youth in those with lighter or darker skin.1 Changes in skin tone may be at least partially due to variability in environmental differences and geographical locations.1 Behavioral habits can also contribute to overall skin aging and radiance. Unfortunately, there currently are limited options to manage pigmentary problems. In addition, some consumers may have only limited access to dermatology specialists. One important modifiable factor in optimizing skin tone and radiance may be to use skincare regimens that have been specifically formulated to improve skin resilience and reduce discolorations. For individuals who have dyspigmentation along with sensitive skin, it is essential to select skincare regimens that are gentle and well tolerated.
Sensitive skin, defined as a negative sensory reaction associated with environmental factors as well as contact with specific ingredients, often without visible clinical manifestations, is surprisingly common. In a recent review, Duarte et al reported that 38.4% of the world’s population have sensitive skin, and, further, rates of sensitive skin in women hover around 50% depending on geographic region.3 In the United States, a rate of 44.6% has been reported for sensitive skin.3 Consumers with sensitive skin seek solutions for hyperpigmentation that won’t damage the skin barrier and are both safe and effective. Some current hyperpigmentation/uneven skin tone products on the market contain ingredients like acids at high percentages that may not be reasonable for a sensitive skin patient. Indeed, cosmetics are prominent triggering factors of sensitive skin, especially in women.3 A number of substances have the potential to cause irritation, including alpha-hydroxy acids, propylene glycol, alcohol, and fragrances, among others.3 Additionally, products that raise or lower the normal pH of the skin can compromise barrier function, allowing penetration of substances and an irritant response.3
This study was designed to assess the effect of a healthy radiance (HR) skin regimen (Cetaphil Gentle PHA Exfoliating cleanser [EC], Antioxidant-C Serum [ACS], Whipped Day Cream with SPF 30 [DC], and Renewing Cream [RC] at night; Galderma
Sensitive skin, defined as a negative sensory reaction associated with environmental factors as well as contact with specific ingredients, often without visible clinical manifestations, is surprisingly common. In a recent review, Duarte et al reported that 38.4% of the world’s population have sensitive skin, and, further, rates of sensitive skin in women hover around 50% depending on geographic region.3 In the United States, a rate of 44.6% has been reported for sensitive skin.3 Consumers with sensitive skin seek solutions for hyperpigmentation that won’t damage the skin barrier and are both safe and effective. Some current hyperpigmentation/uneven skin tone products on the market contain ingredients like acids at high percentages that may not be reasonable for a sensitive skin patient. Indeed, cosmetics are prominent triggering factors of sensitive skin, especially in women.3 A number of substances have the potential to cause irritation, including alpha-hydroxy acids, propylene glycol, alcohol, and fragrances, among others.3 Additionally, products that raise or lower the normal pH of the skin can compromise barrier function, allowing penetration of substances and an irritant response.3
This study was designed to assess the effect of a healthy radiance (HR) skin regimen (Cetaphil Gentle PHA Exfoliating cleanser [EC], Antioxidant-C Serum [ACS], Whipped Day Cream with SPF 30 [DC], and Renewing Cream [RC] at night; Galderma
