Novel, Non-Prescription Regimen Improves Hyperpigmentation

A combination treatment regimen that includes a cosmetic brightener, dual antioxidant system, facial cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer could provide a new solution for moderate to severe facial hyperpigmentation disorders in skin of color patients, according to a poster presented at the Skin of Color Update 2021, held virtually September 10-12.¹

“Hyperpigmentation disorders disproportionately affect individuals with skin of color,” wrote the authors. “These conditions are challenging to treat in patients with skin of color, and these disorders are often recalcitrant or relapsing and require continuous treatment.”

That poses an ongoing problem, they wrote. “The gold standard therapies containing hydroquinone (HQ) cannot be used for extended periods because of adverse effects [AEs],” they added. “Cosmetic topical therapies are in demand, but current options lack efficacy.”

In their view, “comprehensive treatment regimens are needed to adequately address hyperpigmentation.” The aim of their research was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a comprehensive regimen that would include agents “that reduce melanogenesis or neutralize extrinsic stressors” when used together; a comprehensive HQ-free retinol-free cosmetic topical brightener (Lytera 2.0 (LYT2), SkinMedica) and a dual serum that provided antioxidant protection and skin repair support (Lumivive System (LVS), SkinMedica).

Study Shows Positive Changes at Week 4

All of the patients enrolled in the open-label, single center study (n=13) were Asian (38.5%), Hispanic/Other (38.5%) or African American (23.0%). To be eligible to participate, individuals had to have been investigator-assessed as having moderate to severe overall facial hyperpigmentation which was defined as a score of 4-9 on the modified Griffiths scale, according to the authors. Women could not be pregnant or nursing.

Of the study participants, 12 were women, and the mean age was 44 years. Data showed that 23% were Fitzpatrick Skin Type III; 39%, Type IV; 23%, Type V and 15%, Type VI. The study authors evaluated the following treatment regimen:

• LVS Day and Night serum used each once daily
• LYT2 used twice daily
• Facial Cleanser (SkinMedica) used twice daily
• Broad-spectrum SPF 35 sunscreen (SkinMedica) used once daily, reapplied as needed
• Ultra Sheer Moisturizer (SkinMedica) used twice daily

Standardized Digital Photography(Canfield VISIA-CR) and investigator assessments evaluated overall hyperpigmentation, skin tone evenness and radiance were assessed at study visits at baseline, week 2, week 4, week 8, and week 12.

“Significant” changes in skin-tone evenness and radiance were observed as early as week 4 and, according to the authors, continued through the end of the study. Results of those assessments showed “significant improvements” versus baselines for all parameters by week 12.

Results for self-assessed efficacy at 12 weeks revealed 100% of the 10 subjects who completed the study agreed the regimen had improved the overall appearance of their skin; improved their skin’s tone, brightness, youthful appearance, condition and feel.

One AE was reported, with 1 patient reported experiencing irritation and stinging. Symptoms resolved when the subject discontinued the treatment. This patient withdrew.

Results Reveal Positive Outcomes

Study results show that the LYT2+LVS regimen was well tolerated, generated high patient-perceived efficacy and overall satisfaction. The regimen may be a good choice for patients with skin of color who want to improve hyperpigmentation and skin quality.

Reference:

Desai SR; Manry S; Makino E; Mehta R. The efficacy and tolerability of a comprehensive brightening serum plus a dual antioxidant system in skin of color patients with moderate to severe hyperpigmentation. Poster presented at: Skin of Color Update 2021; September 10-12, 2021. Virtual.