Efficacy and tolerability of two commercial hyperpigmentation kits in the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation and photo-aging.

Background: Hyperpigmentary disorders are common aesthetic skin conditions that can be very concerning to patients and both challenging and time-consuming for the physician to treat. Several companies commercialize hyperpigmentation kits for the lightening of dark spots and improvement of overall skin dyschromia. Unfortunately, clinical data from controlled studies to support the efficacy and tolerability of these kits are typically lacking.

Objective: This investigator-blinded, randomized trial was undertaken to compare two commercial hyperpigmentation systems (kits) used for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation and photo-aging.

Methods: Female subjects with at least mild facial hyperpigmentation and photo-aging were randomized to treatment with either the four product SkinMedica (SKM) regimen or the 7-product Obagi (OMP) regimen. Evaluations were conducted at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Subjects were evaluated by the blinded investigator for clinical efficacy and tolerability using grading scales. Standardized digital photographs were taken at baseline and week 12. Self-assessment questionnaires were completed at week 12. Thirty-five females (SKM=17, OMP=18) completed the 12-week study.

Results: Both treatment regimens showed a significant improvement at week 12 (compared to baseline) for Overall Hyperpigmentation, Global Photo-aging and Sallowness. At week 12, there was no significant difference between treatment groups in Global Response to Treatment. Tolerability was good for both regimens based on investigator assessments. Subject self-assessments showed no consistent differences in efficacy between the two regimens. Similarly, there was no significant difference in subject satisfaction or intent to continue use between the two regimens.

Conclusions: This clinical study demonstrated that both systems were equally effective at reducing hyperpigmentation and global photo-aging in females with mottled pigmentation and photodamaged facial skin.