Skin rejuvenation regimens: a profilometry and histopathologic study.
OBJECTIVE
To quantitatively examine the effects of skin rejuvenation regimens in treating photodamaged skin.


METHODS
Fourteen patients with photodamaged skin were considered for analysis. Skin rejuvenation regimens were as follows: (1) 10 weeks of treatment with topical 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream, (2) 10 weeks of treatment with 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream and topical ascorbic acid lotion, (3) 6 superficial trichloroacetic acid peels, and (4) a combination of the topical treatments and superficial peels. Comparisons of the treatments were analyzed using profilometry and histologic findings.


RESULTS
Profilometry analysis provided quantification of the changes from each treatment group and among the treatment programs. Each group showed improvements from baseline. Trichloroacetic acid peels combined with application of the topical products improved skin topography to a greater extent than the less aggressive regimens. Histologic changes correlated well with the skin replica findings.


CONCLUSIONS
A 10-week skin rejuvenation regimen objectively improved photodamaged facial skin. Significant changes are noted when combining topical treatments with superficial peels. Hence, use of a combination of trichloroacetic acid peels, 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream, and ascorbic acid lotions is well tolerated and superior to either component alone as part of a comprehensive skin care and sun protection program.
Rachel
John D
JD
Jamora
Jasmin J
JJ
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D001205:Ascorbic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001706:Biopsy; D002424:Caustics / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007641:Keratolytic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010787:Photosensitivity Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012060:Rejuvenation; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology; D014212:Tretinoin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014238:Trichloroacetic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D002424:Caustics; D007641:Keratolytic Agents; D014212:Tretinoin; D014238:Trichloroacetic Acid; D001205:Ascorbic Acid