A novel skin brightening topical technology

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Effective skin lightening remains an unmet need in over-the-counter formulations. AIMS: This research examined a topical facial formulation containing hexylresorcinol, silymarin, 20% vitamin C, and 5% vitamin E in a proprietary anhydrous vehicle in skin explants for UVB photoprotective effects and clinical benefits. PATIENTS/METHOD: of UVB radiation while the other half unexposed. Clinically, 42 female subjects with normal or dry skin 35-55 years with skin types I-VI were enrolled possessing discoloration, uneven skin tone, and fine lines. The dermatologist investigator evaluated brightening, evenness, fine lines, wrinkles, and global appearance. RESULTS: Explants treated with the study product experienced no significant change in gene marker expression of pro-collagen and pro-inflammatory gene markers upon UVB exposure. In contrast, skin explants treated with the vehicle experienced significant decreases in pro-collagen expression and significant increases in pro-inflammatory gene marker expression. Clinically, the greatest improvement as compared to baseline was seen at week 12 (P < .001) with 45% improvement in brightening, 27% improvement in evenness, 25% improvement in lines, and 25% improvement in global facial appearance. CONCLUSION: Hexylresorcinol, silymarin, 20% vitamin C, and 5% vitamin E in a proprietary anhydrous vehicle are effective in decreasing UVB-induced photodamage in skin explants while clinically producing skin brightness improvement.