Exploring the efficacy of a dermocosmetic serum in addressing dark spots: a study of 39 patients with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, or lentigos

Introduction

Dark spots represent a common concern in dermatological consultations, particularly among individuals with higher phototypes, given their aesthetically displeasing appearance and significant impact on quality of life and well-being. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a pigmentation correction serum, as well as the impact on quality of life.

Methods

This was an open label, intra-individual comparative analysis including 39 subjects from phototype IV to VI presenting with post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma or lentigos. It included 4 visits (at D0, D28, D56, and D84). 

Results

From D0 to D84, the serum demonstrated good clinical efficacy on dark spots by decreasing the number (-45%; p<0.001; Wilcoxon test) and the size of dark spots (-29%; p<0.001; Wilcoxon test). Furthermore, from D0 to D56, a significant decrease in the intensity of dark spots (-42%; p<0.001; Wilcoxon test) was found.  At completion of the study (D84), none of the subjects demonstrated severe intensity of dark spots whereas 85,7% presented a low intensity (clinical score = 0 or 1).

In terms of quality of life, at D84, the results showed a significant decrease of Dermatology Life Quality Index scores compared to D0 (-93%; p<0.001). In addition, no adverse effects were observed during the study.

Conclusions

A pigmentation correction serum for managing dark spots such as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma or lentigos demonstrated clinical efficacy, tolerance and a positive impact on quality of life. 

Authors: Susanna Kannenberg¹, Alejandra Piegari Feliu², Shantal Valdes², Meagan Olevano⁴, Sandrine Bergera Virassamynaik⁵, Audrey Gerstel⁵, Elodie Prestat Marquis⁵

Corresponding author: Dr Susanna KANNENBERG (surethak@sun.ac.za)

¹MMed Derm, MBChB, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa

²CIREC LATAM, Buenos Aires, Argentina

⁴NAOS South Africa, Medical Department, Sandton, South Africa

⁵NAOS Ecobiology Company, Research and Development Department, Aix-en-Provence, France

Susanna Margaretha H Kannenberg¹, Meagan Olevano², Sandrine Bergera Virassamynaik³, Elodie Prestat Marquis³

¹ Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, South Africa

²NAOS South Africa, Medical Department, Sandton, South Africa

³NAOS Ecobiology Company, Research and Development Department, Aix-en-Provence, France