Iron oxides in novel skin care formulations attenuate blue light for enhanced protection against skin damage

Photoprotective Effects of Yeast Pulcherrimin

Sunscreen products can protect the skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation, including reddening, aging, and cancer. The aim of this research was to evaluate the photoprotective effects of yeast pulcherrimin, an iron-chelating dipeptide. We first investigated the cytotoxicity of pulcherrimin produced by Metschnikowia pulcherrima yeast on the human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line, using the PrestoBlue assay. We assessed the ability of pulcherrimin to induce DNA repair after the exposure of HaCaT cells to oxidative stress. We also evaluated its protective activity against UVC radiation. The sun protective factor (SPF) was calculated using the Mansur equation. The UVA/UVB ratio values for pure pulcherrimin were evaluated using the Boots Star Rating system. The critical wavelength was determined by calculating the integrated optical density curve area. Based on the results, pulcherrimin shows strong cytoprotective effects through antioxidant and photoprotective activities on the HaCaT cell line. The calculated SPFs were 20 and 15 at pH = 7 and pH = 10, respectively. The critical wavelength above 370 nm and the UVA/UVB ratio R > 1 suggest that yeast pulcherrimin-a cyclic dipeptide containing iron-may be considered a promising photoprotective agent.

Bio-inspired multifunctional and reusable LiP@MFO-GO and LiP@MFO-Chit hybrid enzyme complexes for efficient degradation of melanin

Melanin is a complex brown pigment, primarily responsible for the skin pigmentation. Therefore, cosmetic industries have always been in search of potent oxidative enzymes useful for melanin degradation, and to promise a fair complexion after using their products. In the present study, lignin peroxidase from Pseudomonas fluorescence LiP-RL5 isolate has been immobilized on super-paramagnetic nanoparticles to enhance its stability and reusability. The chitosan coated enzyme-nanomaterial complex (LiP@MFO-Chit) showed higher melanin decolorization (47.30 ± 2.3 %) compared to the graphene oxide coated nanoparticles (LiP@MFO-GO) (41.60 ± 1.6 %). Synthesized enzyme nanoparticle complexes showed microbicidal effect on skin infection causing pathogen, Pantoea agglomerans with an inhibitory zone of 6.0 ± 0.9 mm and 250 µg/100 µl minimum inhibitory concentration, and a 7.0 ± 1.5 mm zone and 170 µg/100 µl MIC for LiP@MFO-GO and LiP@MFO-Chit, respectively. Antioxidant potential of LiP@MFO-Chit and LiP@MFO-GO nano-conjugates showed a substantial DPPH scavenging activity of 75.7 % and 88.3 %, respectively. Therefore, LiP-nanoparticle hybrid complexes analyzed in this study are not only effective as skin whitening agents but they are potential molecules against various microbial skin infections as well as useful for different other biomedical applications like biorefinery, drug delivery, and dermatology, etc.

The biochemistry of melanogenesis: an insight into the function and mechanism of melanogenesis-related proteins

Melanin is an amino acid derivative produced by melanocyte through a series of enzymatic reactions using tyrosinase as substrate. Human skin and hair color is also closely related to melanin, so understanding the mechanisms and proteins that produce melanin is very important. There are many proteins involved in the process of melanin expression, For example, proteins involved in melanin formation such as p53, HNF-1α (Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α), SOX10 (Sry-related HMg-Box gene 10) and pax3 (paired box gene 3), MC1R(Melanocortin 1 Receptor), MITF (Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor), TYR (tyrosinase), TYRP1 (tyrosinase-related protein-1), TYRP2 (tyrosinase-related protein-2), and can be regulated by changing their content to control the production rate of melanin. Others, such as OA1 (ocular albinism type 1), Par-2 (protease-activated receptor 2) and Mlph (Melanophilin), have been found to control the transfer rate of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes, and regulate the amount of human epidermal melanin to control the depth of human skin color. In addition to the above proteins, there are other protein families also involved in the process of melanin expression, such as BLOC, Rab and Rho. This article reviews the origin of melanocytes, the related proteins affecting melanin and the basic causes of related gene mutations. In addition, we also summarized the active ingredients of 5 popular whitening cosmetics and their mechanisms of action.

The Influence of Blue Light Exposure on Reconstructed 3-Dimensional Skin Model: Molecular Changes and Gene Expression Profile

Recent studies have provided information about digital eye strain and the potential damage that blue light from digital devices can cause to the eyes. In this study, we analyzed the influence of blue light exposure on reconstructed 3-dimensional skin model using RNA sequencing to identify the expression of transcripts and abnormal events. Three-dimensional skin was exposed to visible light spectrum and isolated blue wavelength for 1, 2, and 4 hours to represent acute exposure and 1 hour over 4 sequential days to represent repeated exposure, respectively, in this in vitro model. We compared gene expression levels with those of unexposed control. Samples submitted to repeated exposure showed reduced AK2 and DDX47, whereas they showed increased PABPC3 gene expression, revealing a significantly negative impact. RT-PCR validation assay with exposed 3-dimensional skin compared with unexposed control regarding 1 and 4 days of incubation showed increased IL-6 signaling mechanism activation and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 gene STAT3 gene expression, whereas it showed decreased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling mechanism activation, suggesting an influence on inflammatory pathways. We also demonstrate upregulated gene expression of KIT, MAPK2, and PI3KC in samples from exposed condition, corroborating previous findings related to pigmentation signaling stimuli. These results reveal, to our knowledge, previously unreported data that enable studies on molecular response correlation of in vitro digital blue light exposure and human skin studies.

Evaluation of the protection of sunscreen products against long wavelength ultraviolet A1 and visible light-induced biological effects

BACKGROUND

Long wavelength ultraviolet-A1 in combination with visible light induces hyperpigmentation, particularly in dark-skin phototypes. This study evaluated the efficacy of four sunscreen formulations in protecting against VL + UVA1 (370-700 nm).

METHODS

The test products (A-D) were applied to the back of 12 volunteers, then irradiated with 320 J/cm2 VL + UVA1 (3.5% UVA1 [370-400 nm]). Immediately after irradiation, and at Days 1, 7, and 14, erythema and pigmentation were assessed by investigator global assessment (IGA), colorimetry (Δa* and ΔITA) and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS)-measured relative dyschromia (area under the curve AUC). Control areas were irradiated without sunscreen.

RESULTS

Product D, containing titanium dioxide 11%, iron oxides 1%, and antioxidants, provided the highest and most consistent protection. Compared with unprotected irradiated control, it had statistically significantly less erythema on IGA, DRS (Δoxyhemoglobin), and colorimetry (Δa*) at Day 0; less pigmentation on IGA at all time points, on DRS (relative dyschromia) at Days 7 and 14, and on colorimetry (ΔITA) at Day 0. Product B, containing zinc oxide 12% plus organic UV filters, iron oxides 4%, and antioxidants, also showed some efficacy.

CONCLUSION

Of the sunscreens tested, the tinted products provided better protection against VL + UVA1 than the non-tinted products. Since the product with 1% iron oxides was superior to the product with 4% iron oxides, further studies are needed to evaluate whether iron oxide content correlates with better protection.

Awareness of sun exposure risks and photoprotection for preventing pigmentary disorders in Asian populations: Survey results from three Asian countries and expert panel recommendations

BACKGROUND

In this article, we review and discuss the photoprotection behavior of Asians based on the literature, along with a subanalysis of an original online survey, and make recommendations to optimize photoprotection for Asian populations to prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.

METHODS

An international panel of eight dermatologists from Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam) met to discuss sunscreen photoprotection for Asian patients. Additionally, a subanalysis of an online survey by 3000 respondents from three Asian countries (China, Indonesia, and Japan) investigated general public awareness and attitudes to sun exposure.

RESULTS

A pre-meeting survey of the eight experts from Asia showed key concerns of Asian patients consulting dermatologists are pigmentary disorders, especially actinic/senile lentigo, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, vitiligo, and Hori's nevus. The survey subanalysis of participants from China, Indonesia, and Japan with predominantly Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) II to IV revealed that they are particularly concerned about sun exposure causing photoaging and pigmentary disorders. Most of the respondents indicated they have limited knowledge on sunlight radiation and appropriate sunscreen protection factors. Only 22%, 13%, and 3% for China, Indonesia, and Japan, respectively, systematically use multiple protective measures (using sunscreen, avoiding midday sun, staying in the shade, wearing a hat, protective clothing, and sunglasses) when exposed to the sun.

CONCLUSIONS

Further education is needed for Asian populations on the importance of comprehensive daily photoprotection, including broad-spectrum sunscreen, with high UVA and visible light protection, to reduce and prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.

Enhanced far infrared emissivity, UV protection and near-infrared shielding of polypropylene composites via incorporation of natural mineral for functional fabric development

Far infrared radiation in the range of 4-20 µm has been showed to have biological and health benefits to the human body. Therefore, incorporating far-infrared emissivity additives into polymers and/or fabrics hold promise for the development of functional textiles. In this study, we incorporated nine types of natural minerals into polypropylene (PP) film and examined their properties to identify potential candidates for functional textiles and apparels. The addition of 2% mineral powders into PP film increased the far-infrared emissivity (5-14 µm) by 7.65%-14.48%. The improvement in far-infrared emissivity within the range of 5-14 µm, which overlaps with the peak range of human skin radiation at 8-14 µm, results in increased absorption efficiency, and have the potential to enhance thermal and biological effects. Moreover, the incorporation of mineral powders in PP films exhibited favorable ultraviolet (UV) protection and near-infrared (NIR) shielding properties. Two films, specifically those containing red ochre and hematite, demonstrated excellent UV protection with a UPF rating of 50+ and blocked 99.92% and 98.73% of UV radiation, respectively. Additionally, they showed 95.2% and 93.2% NIR shielding properties, compared to 54.1% NIR shielding properties of PP blank films. The UV protection and NIR shielding properties offered additional advantages for the utilization of polymer composite with additives in the development of sportswear and other outdoor garments. The incorporation of minerals could absorb near-IR radiation and re-emit them at longer wavelength in the mid-IR region. Furthermore, the incorporation of minerals significantly improved the heat retention of PP films under same heat radiation treatment. Notably, films with red ochre and hematite exhibited a dramatic temperature increase, reaching 2.5 and 3.2 times the temperature increase of PP films under same heat radiation treatment, respectively (46.8 °C and 59.9 °C higher than the temperature increase of 20.9 °C in the PP film). Films with additives also demonstrated lower thermal effusivity than PP blank films, indicating superior heat insulation properties. Therefore, polypropylene films with mineral additives, particularly those containing red ochre and hematite, showed remarkable heat capacity, UV-protection, NIR-shielding properties and enhanced far infrared emissivity, making them promising candidates for the development of functional textiles.

Use of sisal industrial waste (Agave sisalana Perrine) in sustainable and multifunctional cosmetic products

OBJECTIVE

Sisal is a common stiff fibre produced around the world, corresponding to approximately 70% of the commercial production of all fibres of this type. The fibres are extracted from the leaves of Agave sisalana, from which approximately 4% of their weight is obtained, with the remaining 96% considered to be residues from the process of the sisal industry. The objective of this work was to obtain a polyphenol-enriched extract from the A. sisalana residue by ultrasonically assisted extraction, characterize it chemically, evaluate in vitro antioxidant activity, and develop safe and stable photoprotective formulations for future application in cosmetic preparations.

METHODS

Ultrasonic extraction of solid plant material was performed using 50% ethanol/water (v/v). The extract was chemically characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography equipment associated with classical molecular networking and evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activity by different methodologies. Ten formulations were prepared, varying the component concentrations and the shear time. The 1.0% sisal extract was incorporated into the most stable formulations, and preliminary and accelerated stability were evaluated. The emulsions were investigated for safety by assessment of primary accumulated dermal irritability and sensitization and a dermatological clinical study of phototoxicity and photosensitization. The photoprotective formulations containing or not containing the extract that were stable after 90 days had their in vivo sun protection factor (SPF), UVA protection factor, critical wavelength, and protection against visible and blue light determined.

RESULTS

Ultrasound extraction using 50% ethanol/water (EH 50) as an extractor vehicle showed the best yield. The extract exhibited a concentration of phenolic compounds (77.93 mg of equivalent to the standard gallic acid/g) and showed in vitro antioxidant activity. Emulsions without and with 1.0% sisal extract remained stable and safe. The addition of the extract to the photoprotective formulation statistically increased the SPF when compared to the formulation without the extract and offered protection against UVA radiation, critical wavelengths, and absorption of visible and blue light.

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings, the solid residue of A. sisalana may be indicated as a component of photoprotective and antioxidant cosmetic formulations.

Melasma treatment with a 1064 nm, picosecond-domain laser with a fractionated multibeam lens array

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Picosecond-domain lasers have been fitted with fractionated optics for dermal remodeling. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of a multiwavelength picosecond-domain laser, using a 1064 nm multibeam lens array, for improving the appearance of melasma.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty adults with a clinical diagnosis of melasma were enrolled and received 4 monthly 1064-nm, 450 ps laser treatments delivered with a 10 × 10 fractional array of 150 µm microbeams. Cosmetic units with melasma were treated with fluences ranging from 1.7 to 2.9 mJ/microbeam with a repetition rate of 6 Hz. Treatment effect was evaluation of digital images by dermatologists blinded as to the treatment conditions, comparing baseline and 3- and 8-month post-treatment images. Modified melasma area and severity index (mMASI) scores were determined by the study investigator based on clinical photography. Subject self-assessment of treatment effects was also recorded.

RESULTS

Blinded reviewers correctly identified the post-treatment image in 16 of the 20 image sets (80%). Ratings demonstrated statistically significant (p < 0.001) improvement on an 11-point scale at both the 3- and 8-month timepoints for a mean improvement of 3.7 point (range -8 to 10) or 37% improvement at the 3-month follow-up, and 2.7 (range -8 to 9) or 27% at the 8-month follow-up for all subjects. The average mMASI score showed highly significant reduction at both the 3- and 8-month follow-ups compared to baseline (p < 0.01). Most subjects (90%) were satisfied with the treatment outcome in melasma at both follow-ups, which is consistent with the treatment outcome and mMASI scores.

CONCLUSION

The fractionated, picosecond-domain, 1064 nm laser is safe and effective for improving melasma and should be considered as an adjunct to topical treatment regimens and sun-protection for management of melasma.

Fortification of Iron Oxide as Sustainable Nanoparticles: An Amalgamation with Magnetic/Photo Responsive Cancer Therapies

Due to their non-toxic function in biological systems, Iron oxide NPs (IO-NPs) are very attractive in biomedical applications. The magnetic properties of IO-NPs enable a variety of biomedical applications. We evaluated the usage of IO-NPs for anticancer effects. This paper lists the applications of IO-NPs in general and the clinical targeting of IO-NPs. The application of IONPs along with photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) is highlighted in this review's explanation for cancer treatment strategies. The review's study shows that IO-NPs play a beneficial role in biological activity because of their biocompatibility, biodegradability, simplicity of production, and hybrid NPs forms with IO-NPs. In this review, we have briefly discussed cancer therapy and hyperthermia and NPs used in PTT, PDT, and MHT. IO-NPs have a particular effect on cancer therapy when combined with PTT, PDT, and MHT were the key topics of the review and were covered in depth. The IO-NPs formulations may be uniquely specialized in cancer treatments with PTT, PDT, and MHT, according to this review investigation.

Photoaging's portrait: The road map towards its photoprotection

OBJECTIVE

To summarize key research published by the author's group, dealing with skin photoaging and its photoprotection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two methodologies (standard photographs and selfies imaging) resulting from referential skin ageing atlases were applied on 2487 subjects of different ancestries, ages and gender. These aimed at first to best assess and grade the variable severities of some facial signs (texture/wrinkles, pigmentary spots, sagging and vascular disorders) that occur progressively during the photoaging process. Second, such methodologies were used to record the benefits brought by a photoprotective regimen (671 women and men).

RESULTS

In all studied ancestries, each facial sign show an increase severity along decades, at its own pace, some showing a linear like progression, whereas some plateau at early ages. These changes differed according to skin innate colour (phototype) and with individual behaviours vis-à-vis sun exposures, more so among European women than North-East Asian women. An effect of gender (less severe alterations) was observed on Chinese men, as compared to Chinese women. Pigmentary disorders were found hallmarks of photo-aged North-East Asian women. Globally, photoaging impact the apparent age of the different subjects. The counteracting effects of strong topical Photoprotective regimens were evidenced along a 6-month seasonality in Chinese and French women or 1-year period in Brazilian women with phototypes II to VI. Photoprotection led to a more even skin complexion among Indian subjects with pigment irregularities.

CONCLUSION

Two factors clearly hamper a better assessment of the efficiency of photoprotection of the sun-induced cutaneous ageing: short durations (months) of the studies with regard to the global fate of photoaging by decades and the number of studied subjects, limited to hundreds for practical reasons. The methodology based on the automatic analysis of facial signs through selfies images could theoretically bypass both factors, allowing thousands of subjects to be studied along years.

In vivo method for evaluating sunscreen protection against high-energy visible light

BACKGROUND

Overexposure to sunlight can have many harmful biological effects on the skin, leading to skin cancer and photoaging. As ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been identified as a cause of DNA damage and oxidative stress in the skin, the photoprotection provided by sunscreens is evaluated through their ability to filter UV light, using the sun protection factor (SPF). However, recent data have shown that high-energy visible (HEV) light can also cause biological skin damage.

OBJECTIVES

To develop a new in vivo method for evaluating the protection provided by sunscreens across a broad range of wavelengths, including the HEV band, based on multispectral image analysis.

METHODS

This study evaluated the absorption properties of six commercially available sunscreens (five SPF 50+ products containing organic UV filters, and one product containing the wide spectrum filter, phenylene bis-diphenyltriazine [TriAsorB™]) and of a control product containing no filter. Multispectral images were acquired from the skin on the forearms of healthy volunteers, before and after application of the test products. Images taken with LEDs emitting light at wavelengths ranging from UV to infrared were used to generate light reflectance maps for each product. The levels of absorbance of light in the UV and visible bands were then calculated.

RESULTS

The product containing the wide spectrum filter exhibited significantly higher absorbance over the HEV band (380-450 nm) than the control product and the other commercial sunscreens. All the sunscreens tested showed the same level of absorbance at 365 nm (UVA).

CONCLUSIONS

Multispectral imaging provides a simple and reliable in vivo method for assessing the real-world protection provided by sunscreens against all forms of photo-induced skin damage, including that induced by HEV radiation.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens containing the TriAsorB™ filter: In vitro photoprotection and clinical evaluation of blue light-induced skin pigmentation

BACKGROUND

Blue light (BL), particularly high-energy visible (HEV) light (400-450 nm), can cause skin damage and pigmentation. Therefore, effective sunscreens should offer photoprotection beyond ultraviolet (UV) radiation to also prevent or limit BL-induced cutaneous effects.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the in vitro BL photostability and photoprotection properties of nine sunscreens containing the broad-spectrum UV/BL phenylene bis-diphenyltriazine (PBDT or TriAsorB™) filter, together with three other organic UV filters, and to assess the in vivo photoprotection level provided by two of these products against BL-induced skin pigmentation.

METHODS

In vitro BL photostability and photoprotection factors, comprising the percentage of BL radiation stopped by the product (%BL) and the critical wavelength extended to BL (BL-CW), were determined by spectrophotometry. The in vivo photoprotection provided by two representative sunscreens (i.e. similar formulations, one non-tinted and one tinted) was assessed in two open randomized studies (20 and 16 women, respectively) after exposure of two test areas (with and without sunscreen) on the back of each subject to a 412-nm irradiation dose at 50 J/cm2 , using instrumental and clinical measurements of skin pigmentation. The percentage sunscreen photoprotective effectiveness (%PPE) was calculated by comparing intrasubject post-exposure pigmentation changes between the with and without sunscreen test areas.

RESULTS

In vitro, the nine PBDT-containing products were highly photostable and had a BL-CW ≥385 nm and a %BL ≥30% (range: 30%-50%), thus allowing effective BL photoprotection. In vivo, both representative sunscreens prevented BL-induced immediate skin pigmentation (1 and 24 h post-exposure) with %PPE values ranging from 50.7% to 75.5% for colorimetric assessments (p < 0.001) and from 31.2% to 72.7% for visual scores (p ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

All PBDT-containing sunscreens were considered effective at absorbing BL radiation in vitro. The two representative broad-spectrum sunscreens tested in subjects significantly reduced BL-induced immediate skin pigmentation following single exposure to monochromatic BL radiation.

Availability of Adequate Photoprotection for Skin of Color

INTRODUCTION

The impact of ultraviolet (UV) light on the skin is well-established to have both immediate and delayed effects with increasing awareness of the impact of visible light (VL) on the skin with regard to photoaging and dyspigmentation. The effects of VL disproportionately impact the skin of color with regard to discoloration of the skin leading to guidelines for photoprotection that include the use of iron oxides in sunscreen products that impart a tint.

METHODS

Commercially available sunscreen products found in the suncare and sun protection displays at local stores, pharmacies, and grocery stores were cataloged, and ingredients were reviewed for the presence of iron oxides.

RESULTS

Of the 410 commercially available sunscreen products cataloged, 1.7% of facial sunscreen products available offered iron oxides, and 0.5% of non-lip products offered shade matching.

CONCLUSION

With only 1.7% of commercially available facial sunscreen products offering iron oxides in addition to traditional broad-spectrum UV protection, there is a clear gap in the market for iron oxide-containing sunscreen products to meet the photoprotection needs for the skin of color.

Efficacy and tolerability of a novel skin cream for improving periocular rhytids and dryness

OBJECTIVE

A novel topical cream was developed to address the appearance of aging periorbital skin. The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of this product (Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream; Colorescience, Inc., Carlsbad, CA) for improving periorbital wrinkles, dryness, laxity, and dark circles.

METHODS

This 8-week open-label trial enrolled subjects 35-65 years old seeking periocular rejuvenation (N = 25; 22 female, 3 male). The product was applied each morning and evening after facial cleansing. Study endpoints were changes in Investigator Clinical Grading and Eye Appearance Assessments, Subject Self-assessment Questionnaires, and tolerability after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

Among subjects completing the study (n = 23), all (100%) showed some global improvement at Weeks 4 and 8 and almost half (48%) achieved moderate or marked improvement. Improvements were observed for all parameters and were most pronounced for wrinkles, laxity, and dark circles. Improvements for laxity and dryness were significant by Week 4 and for dark circles by Week 8. At Week 8, subjects agreed or strongly agreed that the product made their eyes feel more hydrated (100%), look and feel healthier (95%), and increased confidence in their eye appearance (91%). The product was well-tolerated.

LIMITATIONS

Modest number of subjects and open-label study design.

CONCLUSION

Twice-daily Total Eye® Firm & Repair Cream improved the overall appearance of the periorbital area. The product was well-tolerated and most treated subjects were satisfied with their results. The product is a viable option for treating periorbital wrinkles and laxity and should be considered a safe and effective skincare option.

An Open-label Study Assessing the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Post-treatment Skincare Protocol Following Radiofrequency Microneedling for Facial Rejuvenation

BACKGROUND

A post-treatment skincare protocol (Finishing Touch™ Protocol; Colorescience®, Inc.) comprising several commercial products was developed for use after minimally invasive facial procedures.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to assess the effect of this post-treatment protocol on subject experiences following radiofrequency microneedling including confidence to resume normal activities, treatment satisfaction and likelihood for retreatment.

METHODS

Healthy female subjects, aged 21 to 65 years with Fitzpatrick Skin Types I to IV seeking facial rejuvenation with radiofrequency microneedling were enrolled (N=29). The microneedling procedure was performed during the baseline visit. Digital images were obtained before and immediately following microneedling, and after post-procedure application of the skincare protocol. A nonmedicated barrier ointment was also applied prior to the skincare protocol immediately following treatment in a third group of subjects. Subsequently, the skincare protocol was applied each morning after regular skincare routines. Subjects returned after four weeks for a final assessment, a self-assessment questionnaire, and treatment satisfaction ratings.

RESULTS

Following skincare protocol application, most subjects (97%) observed improvements in skin redness and/or treatment site marks, felt more confident (90%) and were very or extremely comfortable resuming normal activities (86%). Mild-to-moderate adverse events (n=4) resolved and were consistent with adverse events reported in the literature with no bleeding immediately following the microneedling with radiofrequency treatment.

LIMITATIONS

Primary limitations were the small number of subjects and self-reported outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results, the studied post-treatment skincare protocol appeared to improve subject confidence, comfort, satisfaction, and the likelihood of a repeat radiofrequency microneedling procedure among the included patients. No reported adverse events incremental to standard microneedling were observed.

An Open-Label Study Assessing the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Skincare Regimen in Subjects of Different Ethnicities with Moderate-to-Severe Hyperpigmentation

Background

Hyperpigmentation is a common cosmetic concern that significantly impacts self‐esteem. A skincare regimen has been developed to improve the appearance, tone, texture, and luminosity of subjects with facial hyperpigmentation (Even Up^® Hyperpigmentation Regimen; Colorescience, Inc., Carlsbad, CA).

Aims

The objective of this open‐label trial was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of this regimen for treating facial hyperpigmentation.

Patients/Methods

Subjects with moderate‐to‐severe facial hyperpigmentation (N = 33) were randomized to those not using prescription, advanced or physician‐dispensed skin care products (Group A, n = 23) and those currently using prescription, advanced or physician‐dispensed skincare products for facial hyperpigmentation (Group B, n = 10). Both groups were provided three skincare products comprising the hyperpigmentation regimen and instructions for use. Subjects were evaluated at baseline and Weeks 2, 4, 8 and 12.

Results

The overall median (range) baseline MASI score at baseline was 9.0 (2, 31), decreasing by 0.0 (−7, 0) points at Week 2 (p = 0.002), 0.6 (−8, 0) points at Week 4 (p < 0.0001), 1.5 (−16, 0) points by Week 8 (p < 0.0001) and 2.4 (−20, 0) points at Week 12 (p < 0.0001). At Week 12, the overall median improvement in MASI score was 26% and higher for Group B (32% vs. 22%). By Week 2, subjects reported lighter, less noticeable brown spots (76%), brighter, more luminous skin (88%), more even skin tone (67%), and healthier look and feel (85%). Improvements continued throughout the study. No adverse events were observed or reported.

Conclusions

This regimen addresses facial hyperpigmentation and protects skin against the damaging effects of ultraviolet and high energy visible light (HEV). It is safe to use on all skin types and tones.

Iron oxides in novel skin care formulations attenuate blue light for enhanced protection against skin damage

Background

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a main cause of aging of sun‐exposed skin, but greater attention is being focused on the damaging effects of high‐energy visible (HEV) light (400 and 500 nm). HEV light exposure has increased with expanding use of consumer electronics, such as smartphones, which have a peak emission in the 400‐490 nm range. Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide protect against UVA and UVB radiation but provide limited protection against HEV light.

Aim

Iron oxides including red iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), yellow iron oxide (Fe(OH)₃/FeOOH), and black iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) effectively block HEV light, each with a different attenuation profile. Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides with patented skin care ingredients have been incorporated into several formulations to provide enhanced skin protection (Colorescience, Inc).

Methods

The percent of HEV light attenuation from 400 nm to 490 nm light was measured in vitro using a technique known as diffuse transmittance spectroscopy using a Perkin Elmer Lambda™ 750 UV/Vis/NIR Spectrophotometer equipped with a 100‐mm integrating Labsphere^® and PbS detector.

Results

Products formulated with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides demonstrated 71.9%‐85.6% attenuation across the tested wavelengths of 415‐465 nm.

Conclusion

Sunscreens formulated with iron oxides provide enhanced protection against blue light, especially when combined with zinc oxide. To our knowledge, similar studies with iron oxides have not been performed.