Skincare routine for sensitive skin improves uneven skin tone without side effects

Key takeaways:

• 81% of patients stated that their skin was more radiant than before the regimen and 76% agreed that their dark spots faded.
• No adverse events were reported.

A four-step skincare routine was effective in reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone in patients with sensitive skin without causing adverse events, according to a study.

“In the United States, a rate of 44.6% has been reported for sensitive skin,” Thu Q. Nguyen, PhD, medical manager of medical affairs at Galderma, and colleagues wrote. “Consumers with sensitive skin seek resolutions for hyperpigmentation that won’t damage the skin barrier and are both safe and effective.”

The prospective, single-center study of 43 women (mean age, 38.2 years; white, n = 18; Hispanic, n = 9) examined the tolerability and efficacy of a four-step, 12-week skincare regimen designed to improve hyperpigmentation and skin texture in diverse, sensitive skin.

The regimen included Galderma products that contained well-known ingredients engineered to suit those with sensitive skin. In the morning and at night, patients used the hydrating Cetaphil Gentle PHA Exfoliating Cleanser. PHA, also known as polyhydroxy acid, is similar to alpha hydroxy acid in that it exfoliates and repairs the skin; however, it is associated with less irritation.

Participants then applied the Cetaphil Antioxidant-C Serum, which contains a vitamin C derivative that is less harsh than pure vitamin C, followed by the Cetaphil Whipped Day Cream with SPF 30.

The routine concluded with the application of a nightly Cetaphil Renewing Cream that contains niacinamide to help brighten the skin.

Results showed that the skincare regimen improved uneven skin tone at weeks 4, 8 and 12 compared with baseline, according to clinical photographs of participants. Dark marks, the appearance of redness and skin color unevenness all improved over the course of the study.

The perceptions of these improvements were noted by participants with 81% stating that their skin was more radiant than before the regimen and 76% agreeing that their dark spots faded, according to a self-assessment questionnaire completed by the cohort.

No adverse events were reported.

“The regimen offers a potent combination that can promote an even skin tone and healthy skin barrier via multiple pathways — exfoliation, antioxidants, sun protections and skin brightening,” the authors wrote. “Our results indicate it could be a safe and effective alternative or supplement to prescription approaches for pigmentation, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.”