Search Results (26)

Sustainable sourcing of bioactive ingredients is an important direction in the development of topical formulations. Fruit by-products generated during food processing such as apple pomace, represent a promising resource for skincare applications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and consumer perception of a three-step facial skincare regimen consisting of a cleansing gel, serum, and face cream containing upcycled apple pomace extract. Unlike most cosmetic studies focusing on single products, this research assessed a complete skincare routine to better reflect real-life usage conditions. All formulations underwent dermatological safety evaluation prior to the in vivo study. The clinical assessment was conducted on 30 healthy female volunteers aged 25–55 years. Skin hydration, pH, transepidermal water loss, sebum level, and skin gloss were measured on untreated skin, after the first use, and after four weeks. User perception was assessed using a questionnaire completed by 58 participants. Short-term changes in skin parameters were observed after application, while four weeks of use maintained them within physiological ranges. Skin gloss increased significantly by 4.2%, and no adverse reactions were reported. These results indicate that the tested skincare regimen containing apple pomace extract was well-tolerated and cosmetically acceptable under the study conditions. Full article

Background: Dermatology and aesthetic medicine make extensive use of microneedling, a minimally invasive and safe treatment. Across the research, it has been shown that microneedling combined with chemical peels is also more effective than chemical peels alone. However, data on procedures in dark-skinned individuals is rather scarce. Aim/Objective: This study aimed to determine the efficacy of using a 4% retinol solution product containing novel TGF-β activators and antioxidants combined with a microneedling technique in the treatment of hyperpigmentation, atrophic acne scars, and enlarged pores in patients with skin of color, generally corresponding to Fitzpatrick skin phototypes IV–VI. Methods: Each of the 10 patients underwent three peel treatment series, with a 30-day interval between each session. Moreover, skin hydration, elasticity, and pigmentation were examined using the Multi Skin Test MC 1000 Courage + Khazaka, and the Observ 520x device. Results: All patients reported an overall improvement and an enhancement in skin tone after the procedure. The majority of them stated subjective improvement in the reduction of facial skin issues: redness, hyperpigmentation, uneven structure, wrinkles, dehydration, dryness, and sebaceous gland activity. The least improvement was noted in scar reduction or liquidation. An objective evaluation revealed a statistically significant improvement in hyperpigmentation and elasticity in the study group. An improvement, however, not statistically significant, in hydration parameters was demonstrated during the study. Conclusions: This study suggests that a combined peel therapy of 4% retinol serum product containing novel TGF-β activators and antioxidants, together with a microneedling technique, may improve facial hyperpigmentation of the skin, as well as regulate sebaceous gland activity, their size, and reduce sebum production. The recommended method is relatively simple to use, low-cost, has minimal adverse effects, and is well tolerated by patients with skin of color. Full article

Acne vulgaris remains a common condition, with current topical therapies often limited by suboptimal efficacy and tolerability. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of two novel 1% hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) formulations, a cream-gel for facial and a sprayable lotion for truncal mild-to-moderate acne. 42 participants presenting facial acne and 41 with truncal acne were treated twice daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy was assessed using the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA), the Spanish Acne Severity Scale (EGAE), and lesion counts. After 56 days, facial acne severity improved significantly (IGA −26%, p = 0.01; EGAE −31%, p = 0.01), with reductions in papules (−45%, p = 0.017), porphyrin count (−27%, p = 0.04), sebum production (−75%, p = 0.005), erythema (−35%, p = 0.0001), and desquamation (−22%, p = 0.02). Truncal acne severity also improved significantly (IGA −32%, p = 0.001; EGAE −45%, p = 0.001), with reductions in inflammatory lesions (−60%, p = 0.001), porphyrin size and count (−55% and −48%, both p = 0.001), erythema (−7%, p = 0.005), and desquamation (−27%, p = 0.001). Both formulations were accepted by the users, with minimal local irritation and high patient satisfaction. Topical 1% H₂O₂ formulations demonstrated significant and well-tolerated efficacy in both facial and truncal acne, supporting their potential as safe and patient-friendly options for managing mild-to-moderate acne. Full article

Objectives: This randomized, controlled, parallel-group study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of daily almond consumption on acne lesion counts, skin hydration, sebum production, and skin microflora composition in 18–35-year-old young adults with acne vulgaris in Mumbai, India. Methods: A defined amount of whole, unsalted almonds with skin (60 g) was provided to the experimental group (n = 36). The control group (n = 38) received isocaloric cereal-pulse-based snack varieties. The primary endpoints were changes in inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts after 20 weeks of supplementation. Secondary endpoints included changes in facial sebum, hydration levels, skin morphology and microflora, and selected biochemical parameters. Results: At week 20, the almond group showed greater reductions in total lesion counts (−22.2% vs. −9.8%), inflammatory lesion counts (−8.3% vs. +12%), and non-inflammatory lesion counts (−26.1% vs. −20.4%) than controls. Objective lesion volume, area, and height measures for both single and clustered acne decreased in the almond group (p ≤ 0.001). Microbial diversity increased, with the Shannon index (2.6 to 3.4 (p = 0.039) and the Chao1 richness index (266.9 → 835.2; p < 0.001) showing improvements at endline. Moreover, significant post-intervention changes in the psychosocial outcomes, such as the acne-related quality of life scores (p < 0.001) and anxiety symptoms (p = 0.016), were observed in the almond group. Conclusions: Daily almond consumption reduced acne lesion count and improved skin microbial diversity and acne-specific quality of life, highlighting its potential to complement standard acne treatments and support skin health. Full article

This study introduces a novel oxygenating facial mask enriched with hemp seed extract, which uniquely combines advanced bubble-generating technology with botanically derived antioxidants for enhanced skin care. The innovative mask forms microbubbles that simulate targeted oxygen delivery, accelerating cell renewal and improving active ingredient absorption. In a randomized, controlled trial, forty participants used either the hemp seed extract mask (F1) or a placebo (F2) over eight weeks. Both formulations demonstrated excellent physical stability for 60 days, maintaining consistent pH, color, fragrance, viscosity, and foaming properties. Notably, F1 demonstrated superior foam persistence and product stability. Clinically, the hemp mask significantly increased skin hydration (up to 65.7%, p < 0.05), reduced sebum levels (32.9%), and lowered erythema (up to 46.9 AU or 12.9%, p < 0.01), without altering skin color or causing adverse effects. Consumer satisfaction with F1 exceeded F2 by 10.7%. The novelty of this work lies in the integration of oxygenating bubble technology and hemp seed extract—demonstrating synergistic effects on skin barrier function, hydration, sebum control, and erythema reduction. These findings highlight the mask’s potential as a next-generation cosmeceutical with meaningful clinical and commercial value. Full article

Background: Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory disorder with significant clinical and psychosocial impacts. Medium-depth chemical peels are increasingly used to manage both active acne lesions and atrophic acne scars. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the clinical effectiveness of a novel multimodal medium-depth chemical peel regimen, yellow peel, in improving acne severity and scar depth, as well as skin hydration and sebum production in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. Methods: Twenty patients (17 women and 3 men) aged 20–25 with mild to moderate acne vulgaris underwent two sessions of yellow peel treatment at four-week intervals. The peel protocol combined glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and a multi-acid mask containing retinol, azelaic, phytic, kojic, and salicylic acids. Clinical outcomes were evaluated at baseline, four weeks after the first peel, and two months after the second peel. Assessments included the Investigators Global Assessment (IGA), inflammatory lesion count, 3D scar depth analysis, skin hydration (corneometer), and sebum secretion (sebumeter). Results: Yellow peel treatment significantly reduced acne severity, with an 85% decrease in inflammatory lesion counts and over 20% reduction in scar depth. Skin hydration improved significantly across all facial regions, and sebum secretion decreased substantially, enhancing skin barrier function and seboregulation. Statistical analysis confirmed the treatment’s efficacy with sustained improvements two months post-final peel. Conclusions: The yellow peel protocol is an effective and well-tolerated adjunct therapy for managing mild to moderate acne and atrophic acne scars. By combining exfoliative, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, sebostatic, and depigmenting agents, this multimodal approach delivers comprehensive skin improvement. Further large-scale, controlled studies are recommended to confirm long-term safety and efficacy. Full article

Introduction: Major manifestations of facial skin aging include the loss of firmness and elasticity, the appearance of wrinkles, and various pigmentary changes. Mesotherapy—both needle and microneedle-based—is a commonly chosen procedure that effectively revitalizes and stimulates the skin. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of both techniques in reducing the signs of skin aging using a product containing fragmented hyaluronic acid and an amino acid complex. Materials and Methods: The study included 20 female participants aged 35–60 years who underwent a series of four treatment sessions in a split-face design. One side of the face was treated with needle mesotherapy, while the other side received microneedle mesotherapy. In each session, 5 mL of a preparation containing fragmented hyaluronic acid, glutathione, stabilized vitamin C, and an amino acid complex was administered. Skin parameters (hydration, pH, sebum level, erythema, and pigmentation), photographic documentation, participants’ subjective evaluations, and pain scores were assessed. Results: Both techniques led to significant improvements in skin condition. Microneedle mesotherapy was more effective in enhancing hydration, regulating sebum and pH, and was better tolerated in terms of pain. Needle mesotherapy demonstrated greater efficacy in reducing pigmentation. Patient satisfaction was high in both groups. Conclusions: Both needle and microneedle mesotherapy are effective treatments for aging skin, although their mechanisms of action differ. The choice of technique should be tailored to the individual needs of the skin and the expectations of the patient. Full article

Cumulative exposure to UV radiation can lead to harmful effects such as skin burns, photoaging, and skin cancer, thus highlighting the importance of using photoprotective formulations. Many sunscreens are vegan and have antioxidant substances to ensure additional photochemoprotective action. We evaluated biophysical, rheological, and sensorial parameters of Face Care Facial Moisturizing Cream^® (P1) and a vegan formulation (P2) by in vitro and in vivo tests. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) was evaluated by Mansur method. Biophysical parameters were analyzed: sebum content, hydration level, transepidermal water loss, erythema and melanin level, skin color, and skin pH. The acceptance profile of the formulations was determined using a 9-point hedonic scale and a 5-point purchase intention test. The SPF values of P1 and P2 obtained by in vitro tests were 25.21 and 12.10, respectively. They also exhibited pseudoplastic and thixotropic behavior, which could contribute to better spreadability and form a protective film. Biometric tests showed an increase in hydration and skin sebum, decreased erythema, and maintenance of skin pH after application of both formulations. The comparison of a commercialized product and a vegan test version showed similar rheological and great acceptance profiles. Therefore, the vegan formulation is a good alternative to reach a different market. Full article

Well-aging strategies include the use of both oral and topic products to nourish the skin from the inside out. A clinical–instrumental study was conducted on 96 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate facial aging to demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum PBS067, Lactobacillus reuteri PBS072, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH020) intake combined with topical ectoin and sodium hyaluronate. The skin sebum content, hydration and moisturization, profilometry (wrinkle depth and skin smoothness), TEWL, elasticity (R0 and R2 parameters), radiance, and pores (size and impurities) were measured after 4 and 8 weeks of product use. These parameters were also integrated through a self-assessment questionnaire to align the measured and the perceived efficacy. One hour after serum application, the wrinkle depth was reduced by 9.2%, while skin hydration increased by 16.6% and skin radiance by 19.1% following cream application. After 4 and 8 weeks of use, both the oral and topical products were shown to respect the skin’s hydrolipid film, effectively improve skin parameters associated with aging, and detoxify the skin from impurities. The mechanism behind these improvements was linked to an enhancement of the skin microbiome. Our findings clearly demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic intake combined with topical ectoin and sodium hyaluronate in enhancing skin health and mitigating the signs of skin aging. Full article

Introduction: Enlarged facial pores are a common cosmetic concern caused by excessive sebum production, visible hair shafts, and a reduction in skin elasticity, leading to a decrease in skin quality and overall appearance. Various treatment modalities have been explored to address this issue. This study focuses on the efficacy and safety of combining Onabotulinumtoxin A (OnaBoNT-A) and hyaluronic acid filler (HA filler) to target enlarged facial pores in Asians. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of OnaBoNT-A monotherapy in combination with HA filler for the treatment of enlarged facial pores. This study was a prospective, randomized, single-blinded, split-face, controlled trial that enrolled 32 subjects with visibly enlarged pores on both cheeks. One side of the face received intradermal injections of OnaBoNT-A, while the other side received OnaBoNT-A in combination with intradermal hyaluronic acid filler injection. The outcomes were measured by pore volume, visual assessment, pain score, improvement score, and side effects at various time intervals up to 24 weeks. Results: This study investigated the effects of onaBoNT-A monotherapy or in combination with HA filler on facial pore size and skin roughness. The results showed that both sides exhibited a reduction in pore volume and skin roughness over time, but the side treated with onaBoNT-A monotherapy had a slightly better improvement than the combination side at the 6-month follow-up. Subjects with histories of facial oiliness were more likely to respond to onaBoNT-A monotherapy, while those without histories of facial oiliness were more likely to respond to the side treated with combined treatment. The most common adverse events were erythema, bruising, and edema, which were more frequent on the combination side. Additionally, 18 subjects (56.25%) experienced a palpable lump on the combination side, which resolved in most cases within a few months. Conclusion: BoNT-A and HA dermal filler had a role in reducing pore size. Nonetheless, individuals with enlarged pores who exhibited beneficial effects to botulinum toxin injection typically had a background of facial oiliness. Adverse incidents like dermal edema and palpable nodules were observed, underscoring the significance of meticulous patient selection and accurate injection technique. Full article

Most people want effective anti-aging and skin-brightening products. Although red-to-near-infrared (R/NIR) spectroscopy has recently been used in cosmetology, its practical use with high efficacy for anti-aging and skin brightening remains challenging. Herein, we aimed to determine the efficacy and improvement effects of a newly developed anti-aging and skin-brightening facial mask. A face study was conducted to assess efficacy and improvement effectiveness, with 21 female volunteers with oily, dry, and normal skin conditions applying the product under study (CF Magic Mask) to their face for 4-week periods. The dermatologist investigator evaluated the skin brightness, skin elasticity, eye wrinkles, dead skin cells on the scalp, dermal density, face lifting, scalp sebum, and global appearance. The mean skin-brightening and anti-aging parameters were improved (p < 0.05) after the use of the newly developed CF Magic Masks for 4-week periods. Significantly, the scalp sebum and dead skin cells on the scalp showed the greatest improvement, being reduced by about 26.71% and 21.96%, respectively. The global assessment by the volunteers showed moderate efficacy and preference, with no adverse effects or skin irritation indicated after the use of the test product. Full article

The use of lipid nanocarriers as components of cosmetic formulations may provide an opportunity to fully exploit the beneficial properties of pentapeptide-18 and retinol while reducing the undesirable effects that occur during retinoid therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of semi-solid formulations enriched with retinol and oligopeptide-loaded lipid nanocarriers. Solid lipid nanoparticles were produced using a high-shear homogenization method. The work included physicochemical characterization of the cosmetic products, and evaluation of their stability as well as their efficacy. The resulting semi-solid preparations were determined to be stable regardless of their storage temperature. No effect of the presence of lipid nanoparticles on the shelf-life stability of the cosmetic products was observed. A temperature of 25 °C was considered the recommended storage temperature for the tested semi-solid formulations. Beneficial effects of the cosmetic products were proven (in vivo study on volunteers), i.e., a significant reduction in the level of sebum secretion (anti-acne therapy) and a decrease in the number of facial wrinkles (anti-aging therapy). In addition, the protective properties of the lipid nanoparticles themselves against the skin were confirmed, reducing the irritating effect of retinol that is usually the case with classic retinoid therapies. Full article

The targeted delivery of a hydrophilic Tripeptide-3 to the skin using microemulsions or nanoemulsions for facial oil reduction was the focus of this study. The impact factors affecting oil/water transparent dispersion formation, such as the surfactant system, HLB value, and co-solvent, were identified through the water titration method and pseudoternary phase diagram plots. The interfacial tension between caprylic/capric triglyceride (CCT oil) and water was significantly reduced by the surfactant/co-surfactant combination (S_mix) of Cremophore^® RH40 and a double-tails co-surfactant, polyglycerol-3-diisostearate, at an HLB of 13 together with a water-to-co-solvent (PG) ratio of 1:1. A two-level full factorial design of experiment (FFD-DoE) emphasized the independent variables of the HLB value, co-solvent, and CCT oil contents affecting the optimal compositions for micro- or nanoemulsion formation. The low-energy spontaneous emulsification of the optimized combination at a low S_mix content (10%) yielded the translucent oil-in-water Tripeptide-3 nanoemulsions with an internal droplet size of 25.7 ± 1.20 nm, a narrow polydispersity index of 0.237 ± 0.129, and 70.6 ± 0.58% transmittance. The in vitro skin permeation study revealed a significantly higher skin penetration and retention of the Tripeptide-3 nanoemulsions compared to the high surfactant microemulsions and coarse emulsions. Skin irritation and oil control efficacy were evaluated in healthy volunteers before and after product application for 28 days. The obtained nanoemulsions not only decreased sebum production but also enhanced skin moisture levels. In conclusion, the meticulously designed nanoemulsions, incorporating suitable excipients, show a promising delivery system for hydrophilic peptides to control sebum overproduction in oily facial skin. Full article

Preliminary findings from multiple studies indicate that dietary intake of soy-derived isoflavones exert beneficial effects on the skin including defense against oxidant damage, stimulation of collagen synthesis, and increased hydration. This study aims to investigate how oral supplementation of a soy protein isolate with added isoflavones (SPII) affects components of photoaging such as facial wrinkles and dyspigmentation, and skin biophysical measures such as skin hydration and sebum excretion in postmenopausal women. This 6-month prospective, randomized double-blind controlled study was conducted on 44 postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III who were randomized to receive either casein protein or SPII. A high-resolution facial photography system was used to measure wrinkle severity and pigmentation at 0, 8, 16, and 24 weeks. Skin biophysical measurements included skin hydration and sebum production. The average wrinkle severity was decreased in the SPII intervention group at week 16 and week 24 by 5.9% and 7.1%, respectively, compared to the baseline. Compared to the casein group, average wrinkle severity was significantly decreased at week 16 (p < 0.05) and week 24 (p < 0.0001). Facial pigment intensity was decreased by −2.5% (p < 0.05) at week 24, whereas there was no significant change in the casein group. Compared to baseline, skin hydration in the SPII group was significantly increased by 39% and 68% on the left and right cheeks (p < 0.05), respectively, at 24 weeks. There were no significant differences in sebum production. Dietary soy protein supplementation with isoflavones may improve skin photoaging, including wrinkles and dyspigmentation, and increase skin hydration in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III. Full article

The goal of this research was to develop a reliable oil-controlling toner for facial skin with a natural product, Houttuynia cordata Thunb extract (HCE). The developed HCE facial toner showed high stability and had a high satisfaction level. Clinical studies revealed that the sebum value of the skin after using the developed HCE toner for eight weeks decreased (4.6-times lower), which was statistically significant (p-value < 0.05) when compared to the HCE-free toner. The sebum amount on the facial skin after using the HCE toner decreased by approximately two-times compared to the HCE-free toner. In addition, the skin moisture content increased statistically significantly (p-value < 0.05) from the eighth week of treatment compared to the HCE-free toner and was 1.5- and 1.4-times higher for the left and right cheeks, respectively. The average moisture content of the facial skin treated with the HCE toner increased by 2- and 1.4-times compared to the treatment with the HCE-free toner for the left and right cheeks, respectively. Consequently, the HCE toner had anti-sebum and moisturizing efficacy, and the increased reliability of the natural product meant that it could soon be a premium commercial product. Full article