Abstract
Background Extrinsic skin aging caused by atmospheric pollutants is associated with a sustained inflammatory response which is a significant risk factor for lentigines and melasma. Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of topical application of combination formulation of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid as an adjuvant to Q-switched Nd:YAG (QSNY) lasers treatment in individuals with lentigines and melasma. Methods A single blinded, prospective, randomized split-face trial was conducted. Eighteen men and women between 26 and 53 years old were treated with a combination antioxidant serum on one randomized side of their face immediately after QSNY laser and twice daily for 2 weeks. Patients were evaluated using digital photography and spectrometry to assess the melanin index and erythema index. Melasma severity score and global improvement scores also were assessed. Results The treated side of the face exhibited a significantly greater reduction in the melanin index. There was no significant difference in post-treatment erythema. More clinical improvement was observed on the treated side compared with the untreated side. Conclusions Our study suggests that topical application of a combination vitamins C, E, and ferulic acid antioxidant formula may be effective as an adjuvant option in QSNY lasers.