Assessment of cubosomal alpha lipoic acid gel efficacy for the aging face: a single-blinded, placebo-controlled, right-left comparative clinical study.

BACKGROUND

A poloxamer solution acting as a vehicle for the lipid base particulate system (cubosome dispersions) containing alpha lipoic acid (ALA) has achieved encouraging results in skin aging.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the efficacy of 5% Cubosomal ALA as an anti-aging formulation.

METHODS

This single-blinded, placebo-controlled, comparative study was conducted on 20 females. Patients were instructed to apply a gel formulation containing the active ingredient over the right half of their face and a placebo gel on the left half twice daily for 6 months. Global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) was utilized as a measure of clinical progress. The thicknesses of the epidermis and dermis were assessed before and after treatment using an ultrasound biomicroscope.

RESULTS

The GAIS score assessment at 3 and 6 months showed a significantly greater improvement on the right sides in comparison with the left sides. At the end of the treatment period, the mean epidermal thickness significantly increased on the right side in comparison with the left side and the mean dermal thickness increased more on the right side in comparison with the left side; however, this difference was not significant.

CONCLUSION

5% Cubosomal ALA is an effective and safe modality for improving aging face.