Cosmetic use of three topical moisturizers following glycolic acid facial peels.

BACKGROUND

Facial chemical exfoliation (peeling) involves using a chemical agent to insult the skin and damage the cutaneous barrier, to reduce the signs of aging. The use of a moisturizer is advised postprocedure to promote repair of the epidermis. Biomimic moisturizer formulations may be effective treatment options for repair following facial peeling.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to assess the local tolerance and cosmetic efficacy of three topical moisturizers (Physiogel® moisturizing creams), used after a 70% glycolic acid facial peel.

METHODS

Three randomized, evaluator-blind, parallel group studies were performed. Subjects were healthy females aged 30-60 years with moderate to advanced photoaged skin (Glogau photoaging type II-III). All included a screening visit, a 7-day washout period, a 70% glycolic acid facial peeling procedure, and randomization to a 14-day treatment period with one of the three test products vs control.

RESULTS

The primary endpoint was reached in all three studies; all completed subjects in the test groups received a favorable dermatologist global assessment score for tolerance at Day 14 (postchemical peel). Secondary assessments of local tolerance based on dermatologist and subject self-assessment scores demonstrated improvements from baseline. No treatment-related adverse events were reported in any study. Benefits for the test products were also observed in secondary efficacy analyses of transepidermal water loss and moisturization.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies have demonstrated the local tolerance and cosmetic efficacy of three moisturizing skin care products, when used for skin recovery after superficial chemical peeling on the face.