Split-face study of topical 23.8% L-ascorbic acid serum in treating photo-aged skin.
BACKGROUND
L-ascorbic acid has been widely used to treat photo-aged skin. However, its aqueous formula is prone to oxidation. Therefore, a new formula that contains 23.8% L-ascorbic acid and a chemical penetration enhancer was developed.


OBJECTIVE
Observe the efficacy and safety of topical 23.8% L-ascorbic acid serum on photo-aged skin.


METHODS
Twenty Chinese women with photo-aged skin were enrolled in this split-face study. They were treated with topical L-ascorbic acid serum with iontophoresis on one side of the face once a day for 2 weeks; the other side of the face was spared treatment through participants' self-control. Changes in photo-aged skin were evaluated using a global evaluation, an overall self-assessment, a spectrophotometer, the phase-shift rapid in vivo measurement of skin (PRIMOS) 3D, and a corneometer.


RESULTS
Sixteen of 20 patients (80%) experienced a score decrease of 2 or 3 grades, according to the dermatologist. Fifteen patients (75%) rated their overall satisfaction as excellent or good. Dyspigmentation, surface roughness, and fine lines on the treated side improved significantly.


CONCLUSIONS
Topical 23.8% L-ascorbic acid serum is effective for the treatment of photo-aged skin and does not cause any obvious side effects.
Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
Tian-Hua
TH
Xu
John Z S
JZ
Chen
Yuan-Hong
YH
Li
Yan
Y
Wu
Yao-Jia
YJ
Luo
Xing-Hua
XH
Gao
Hong-Duo
HD
Chen
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D001205:Ascorbic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood*; D005145:Face / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007478:Iontophoresis / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D001205:Ascorbic Acid