ascorbic-acid and Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation disorders are commonly encountered in dermatology clinics. The use of prescription-grade and over-the-counter topical lightening agents has increased in popularity, leading to a substantial growth of research over the past decade.. We seek to review clinical studies evaluating the use of different Rx-grade and OTC ingredients in treating hyperpigmentation.. A comprehensive search on PubMed was conducted to identify patient-based evidence on the most common ingredients used as topical lightening agents: arbutin, ascorbic acid, cysteamine, hydroquinone, kojic acid, niacinamide, retinoids, and triple-combination therapy. The topicals were classified as either prescription-grade or over-the-counter.. Varying levels of evidence support the use of topicals in treating hyperpigmentation. There were more clinical trials examining Rx-grade products than OTC products. Mild but tolerated side effects are noted in many of these agents.. Careful monitoring and adjustment of doses will be needed to maximize skin lightening benefits and minimize side effects.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Retinoids; Skin

Physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation is a common esthetic concern that affects individuals of various ethnicities, and can have a significant impact on individual's self-confidence and overall quality of life. Thus, this study aimed to clinically assess the effectiveness of intra-mucosal injection of vitamin C versus 980 nm diode laser for the management of physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation.. Twenty-six healthy non-smoker individuals with physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation were randomly assigned to two groups. Group I received intra-mucosal injection of vitamin C (L-Ascorbic acid 1000 mg/5 ml), and group II was managed using diode laser (980 nm, 1.5 W, continuous wave mode). Clinical evaluation of pigmentation intensity and distribution was performed preoperatively, and at 1, 2 and 3 months postoperatively using two different color assessment indices; Dummett-Gupta Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI), and Gingival Pigmentation Index (GPI). Additionally, the study assessed pain intensity and patients' satisfaction.. Pigmentation scores decreased significantly between pre-operative visit and different follow-up visits for both treatment modalities (p < 0.0001*). When compared to the vitamin C mesotherapy group, the laser group demonstrated significantly lower gingival pigmentation scores (p < 0.0001*). However, both treatment modalities were equally satisfying for the patients.. Vitamin C mesotherapy and diode laser are both effective in the management of physiologic gingival hyperpigmentation. While diode laser yields better and earlier results, vitamin C mesotherapy offers a cost-effective, safe and minimally invasive approach that is equally satisfying for the patients seeking esthetic enhancements.. The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05608057) on (01/11/2022).

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Esthetics, Dental; Gingival Diseases; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Lasers, Semiconductor; Lasers, Solid-State; Mesotherapy; Quality of Life

Vitamin C/Ascorbic acid inhibits tyrosinase enzyme causing melanin biosynthesis suppression. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intra-mucosal injection (mesotherapy) with topical gel as non-surgical methods for managing gingival hyperpigmentation.. Twenty healthy non-smokers with mild to severe hyperpigmented gingiva were randomly assigned for Mesotherapy (G1); intra-mucosal injection of ascorbic acid (1/week/3 weeks); or Gel (G2), topical ascorbic acid gel (1/day/3 months). Pigmentation index (DOPI), patient satisfaction, as well as histological analysis for Fontana-Masson-stained specimens were performed at baseline and after 6 months. Comparison between groups and changes by time were analyzed using Mann-Whitney and Friedman's tests, respectively.. The median DOPI significantly decreased after 1 month in G1 (P value < 0.001, r = 0.9) compared with non-significant change in G2. No pain experienced during or after treatment in both groups. G1 patients showed significantly higher satisfaction with treatment than G2. Mean area fraction of melanin forming cells was significantly reduced in both groups after 6 months, but the effect size was higher in G1 (r = 0.886) than in G2 (r = 0.797).. Vitamin C mesotherapy showed better and early effect than topical gel, and both techniques were not painful and esthetically satisfying in managing gingival hyperpigmentation.. Gingival melanin pigmentation causes esthetic concerns for significant number of patients. Investigating non-surgical depigmentation techniques to decrease postoperative complications and patient discomfort, pain and long healing period associated with surgical methods would be clinically significant.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Esthetics, Dental; Gingival Diseases; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Melanins; Mesotherapy

Evaluation and comparison of the efficacy and safety of 3 different modalities of treatment for dark circles that function via different modes of action.. In total, 45 female patients with periorbital hyperpigmentation were randomly selected to participate from those attending the outpatient dermatology clinic of Al-Zahraa University Hospital within a 6-month period. Patients were divided into 3 groups, and the groups were subjected to different types of therapy: group A, carboxy therapy; group B, chemical peel; and group C, vitamin C mesotherapy.. No statistically significant differences were detected in improvements in pigmentation or the degree of patient satisfaction between any of the groups. However, the mesotherapy group reported more of a burning sensation following treatment than the other 2 groups but also showed a significant improvement in pigmentation and patient satisfaction compared with the carboxy group.. All 3 treatment modalities were effective in the reduction in periorbital pigmentation. However, mesotherapy showed a significant improvement in pigmentation and a higher level of patient satisfaction compared with the other types of treatment.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Carbon Dioxide; Caustics; Chemexfoliation; Eye; Female; Gases; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Injections, Intradermal; Mesotherapy; Middle Aged; Patient Satisfaction; Treatment Outcome; Trichloroacetic Acid; Young Adult

Topics: Acne Vulgaris; Adult; alpha-Tocopherol; Ascorbic Acid; Cicatrix; Cosmeceuticals; Drug Combinations; Erythema; Female; Glyceryl Ethers; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Male; Skin Cream; Treatment Outcome; Young Adult

High recurrence has previously been reported in the treatment of melasma with low-fluence 1,064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (QS-Nd:YAG) laser. On the other hand, the efficacy and safety of the QS-Nd:YAG laser plus microneedling with vitamin C have not been evaluated in patients with mixed-type melasma.. Sixteen patients with recalcitrant dermal- or mixed-type melasma were included in the study. One side of patients' face was treated with QS-Nd:YAG laser plus microneedling with vitamin C (Group A) and the other side with QS-Nd:YAG laser alone (Group B) for four sessions at four-week intervals. Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI) scores and clinician's evaluation of clinical response were assessed monthly.. Group A had a significantly lower mean MASI score and better treatment response than Group B according to clinician's evaluation. According to MASI scores, in Group B, two patients had a good response while 12 were unresponsive to treatment. Good or very good improvement was reported by 10 patients in Group A and three patients in Group B. Adverse effects and recurrence rates were similar in Groups A and B (31.3 and 43.8%, respectively).. QS-Nd:YAG increases the blood circulation in the dermis, thereby enhancing the mechanical effect of microneedling to promote the penetration of vitamin C.. Vitamin C application with microneedling immediately after treatment with QS-Nd:YAG laser is a promising adjunctive method for the treatment of recalcitrant melasma.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Combined Modality Therapy; Cosmetic Techniques; Double-Blind Method; Erythema; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Hypopigmentation; Lasers, Solid-State; Male; Melanosis; Middle Aged; Needles; Quality of Life; Recurrence; Retreatment; Severity of Illness Index

A 12-week open-label, single-center clinical usage trial was conducted to determine the effectiveness of a dual product regimen consisting of a 0.5% retinol treatment and an anti-aging moisturizer with 30% vitamin C in women with mild to moderate hyperpigmented and photodamaged facial skin. Clinical grading of several efficacy parameters, tolerability evaluations, subject self-assessment questionnaires, and digital photography were completed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12. A total of 44 women completed the study. Effective ingredients incorporated into the 0.5% retinol treatment included encapsulated retinol for a retinol concentration of 0.5%, bakuchiol, and Ophiopogon japonicus root extract. The anti-aging moisturizer with 30% vitamin C contained 30% vitamin C in the form of tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD ascorbate), alpha-tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) and ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10). The facial regimen produced a statistically significant decrease (improvement) in clinical grading scores for all parameters assessed at weeks 8 and 12 when compared with baseline scores. In addition, the majority of these parameters were improved at week 4. The test regimen was well-perceived by the subjects for various inquiries regarding facial skin condition, product efficacy, and product attributes. Several tolerability parameters were assessed with no statistically significant increase except for dryness. A statistically significant increase in clinical grading scores for dryness on the face occurred at weeks 4 and 8 when compared to baseline scores. The increase in dryness is expected when introducing a retinol product to a facial regimen and the dryness did not persist to the week 12 time point.

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Drug Compounding; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Middle Aged; Pruritus; Skin Aging; Skin Care; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin A

A 4% hydroquinone/10% L-ascorbic acid treatment system aims to treat early signs of photodamage in normal to oily skin and help prevent further photodamage. The system also contains vitamin E, witch hazel, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, penetration-enhancing ingredients, micronized zinc oxide, and octinoxate.. Patients with minimal or mild facial photodamage and hyperpigmentation, and normal to oily facial skin, used the treatment system for 12 weeks.. Of 34 females enrolled, 30 completed. Median scores for the overall integrated assessment of photodamage, overall intensity of pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, tactile roughness, and laxity were significantly improved at week 12 compared with baseline. Furthermore, ≥ 90 percent of patients considered their skin was smoother, softer, more evenly toned, and more radiant, and 100 percent were satisfied with the overall appearance of their skin.. The treatment system can help to ameliorate early signs of photodamage in normal to oily skin.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Dermatologic Agents; Drug Combinations; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hydroquinones; Hyperpigmentation; Patient Satisfaction; Sebum; Severity of Illness Index; Skin Aging; Skin Care; Treatment Outcome

Cutaneous hyperpigmentation occurs in multiple conditions. There is a strong need for the improvement of hyperpigmentation especially among Asian women. However, the effect of existing skin-lightening agents is not sufficient. One reason attributes to the limited capability of active agents to be delivered transepidermally. Ultrasound is one promising approach to enhance transepidermal transport. In this work, we investigate the effect of the use of high-frequency ultrasound together with coupling gel containing skin-lightening agents (ascorbyl glucoside and niacinamide) on facial hyperpigmentation in vivo in Japanese women.. The effect of ultrasound on the absorption of skin-lightening agents into the stratum corneum was evaluated in a tape-stripping method on human forearms in vivo. The skin efficacy was assessed in a facial clinical trial involving 60 subjects with hyperpigmentation in a paired design. Subjects were assigned to two groups, each group using two treatments (one on each facial cheek): (1) skin-lightening gel with ultrasound vs. no treatment or (2) skin-lightening gel with ultrasound vs. skin-lightening gel treatment. Changes in facial hyperpigmentation were objectively quantified by computer analysis and visual grading of high-resolution digital images of the face in addition to the subjective assessment via questionnaire.. Ultrasound radiation enhanced the absorption of skin-lightening agents in the stratum corneum in a radiation-time-dependent manner. In the facial clinical trial, use of ultrasound radiation together with the skin-lightening gel significantly reduced facial hyperpigmented spots compared with both no treatment and skin-lightening gel alone after 4 weeks.. The data suggest that use of high-frequency ultrasound radiation together with skin-lightening gel is effective to reduce hyperpigmentation via enhancing transepidermal transport of skin-lightening agents.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Combined Modality Therapy; Dermatologic Agents; Female; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Middle Aged; Niacinamide; Skin Pigmentation; Treatment Outcome; Ultrasonic Therapy

Although an aggressive use of tretinoin along with hydroquinone enables an efficient treatment of hyperpigmented skin lesions, irritant dermatitis remains to be solved.. To evaluate the efficiency and adverse effects of 10% all-trans retinol (ROL) gel for improvement of skin hyperpigmentation.. Ten-percent ROL gel was used instead of 0.1% tretinoin gel in our two-phased bleaching protocol (bleaching and healing phases); 5% hydroquinone and 7% lactic acid ointment were used along with ROL gel in the bleaching phase (2 to 6 weeks). Five-percent hydroquinone and 7% ascorbic acid ointment were used alone during the healing phase (4 to 6 weeks). Twenty-one Japanese patients with hyperpigmented lesions on the face were enrolled in this study, and 18 patients who were followed for more than 10 weeks were analyzed.. Improvement of pigmentation was seen in 16 of 18 patients after an average treatment period of 11.3 weeks, and in 6 patients, pigmentation was almost eliminated after treatment. Erythema and scaling were seen, however, during the bleaching phase as well as the bleaching treatment with tretinoin gel.. ROL can improve skin hyperpigmentation to a similar extent to tretinoin when used at high concentration, whereas it induces irritant dermatitis as well.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Ascorbic Acid; Dermatitis, Irritant; Drug Therapy, Combination; Erythema; Female; Gels; Humans; Hydroquinones; Hyperpigmentation; Lactic Acid; Middle Aged; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin A

The aim of this study was to quantify and confirm the efficacy of cosmetic formulations for hyperpigmented spots over a wide area of the face using a high quality digital imaging system that we developed.. A total of 120 Japanese female volunteers aged 25-60 years with solar lentigines were treated for 6 months with a skin lightening moisturizer (SLM, thereafter) containing 3% magnesium ascorbyl phosphate on one side of the face and vehicle on the other side. During the course of the study, facial images were collected by the image analysis to measure facial skin colour and the total area of hyperpigmented spots. The evaluation was also conducted by visual grading. Measurements were made before and 1, 3, and 6 months after starting the application, and again 6 months after discontinuing the treatment. Three similar clinical studies using the same protocol were repeated for up to one-month to confirm the reproducibility of the results and to examine seasonal variation.. SLM significantly reduced the total area of hyperpigmented spots (P < 0.005) after one month of treatment compared to the vehicle, with no significant variation in facial skin colour tone in the areas outside the hyperpigmented spots. The results of the visual grading were consistent with those obtained by image analysis. The total area of hyperpigmented spots 6 months after discontinuing the treatment had returned to pre-treatment levels. The reproducibility of these clinical results was demonstrated in three follow-up studies.. A high-resolution digital imaging method, combined with a split-face clinical protocol is sensitive enough to prove that SLM readily reduces hyperpigmented spots, while maintaining normal facial skin colour.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Face; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Image Enhancement; Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; Japan; Middle Aged; Pharmaceutical Vehicles; Reproducibility of Results; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome

Skin aging is a process regulated by chronological aging and amplified by exposome factors including chronic UV exposure and pollution, which both induce reactive oxygen species. Topical antioxidants have the potential to counteract this process and to improve skin aging signs, including wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.. To evaluate the efficacy of a topical antioxidant serum containing 15% L-ascorbic acid, neohesperidin, Pinus pinaster bark, tocopherol, and hyaluronic acid (HA) ex vivo on air pollution-induced pigmentation and gene expression, as well as in vivo on skin aging signs in Brazilian volunteers, after 90 days of use.. Ex vivo human skin samples were repetitively exposed to Diesel Exhaust Particles (DEP) and subsequently analyzed for changes in pigmentation and gene expression. Clinical efficacy was evaluated in 40 healthy adult females with phototype II to IV and visible photoaging signs, including facial hyperpigmentation, through dermatological evaluation and instrumental analysis including Reflectance Confocal Microscopy.. Ex vivo, the topical antioxidant serum significantly reduced DEP-induced skin pigmentation and expression of proinflammatory genes. A significant improvement of skin aging signs was observed after 90 days. Local tolerance was good.. The tested serum is effective in protecting human skin ex vivo against air pollution-induced skin pigmentation/aging and reduced in vivo skin aging signs, with a good safety profile after 90 days of daily use.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Female; Humans; Hyaluronic Acid; Hyperpigmentation; Skin Aging; Tocopherols; Vitamin E

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is widely used in dermatology for skin depigmentation. However, there are very few clinical studies on the efficacy of vitamin C in gingival depigmentation. This preliminary case series aims to present the clinical effectiveness, histologic changes, and patient-reported outcomes of intra-epidermal vitamin C injections (oral mesotherapy) for managing patients with gingival melanin hyperpigmentation.. Five patients were administered locally injectable vitamin C (once per week for 4 to 5 visits) in maxillary or mandibular anterior pigmented gingiva. The depigmentation effect was evaluated using the Dummett Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI) and Gingival Pigmentation Index (GPI). Digital photographs were used to assess gingival luminescence (L*) and pigmented surface area (PSA). Parameters were recorded at baseline and at 1 and 3 months. Melanocyte histopathologic count was determined at baseline and at 3 months. Pain, gingival color change, and patient satisfaction scores were also assessed.. Median GPI, DOPI, and PSA were significantly reduced (P ≤ .05) from baseline to 1 month. There was no statistically significant change from 1 month to 3 months. L* value significantly increased from baseline to 3 months. A median pain score of 3 (scale of 0 to 10) was observed on the day of the procedure. A score of 3 (scale of 0 to 4) was reported for the gingival color and scores 3 and 4 (scale of 0 to 4) for the overall patient satisfaction.. Oral mesotherapy using locally injectable vitamin C is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive, and efficient technique for gingival depigmentation. Indian patients were satisfied with the gingival color obtained and the overall treatment experience.. As all the branches of medicine, specifically dentistry, direct to minimally invasive approaches, mesotherapy shows great importance to reduce the surgical interventions, especially when esthetic outcomes are needed. Oral mesotherapy using locally injectable vitamin C can be a useful nonsurgical technique for achieving gingival depigmentation in the esthetic zone.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Gingival Diseases; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Melanins; Mesotherapy; Pain

Vitamins C, E, and A and substances of plant origin, including azelaic acid and phytic acid are frequently used in cosmetic preparations to counteract oxidative stress and negative effects of free radicals. The aim of the study was to evaluate a novel combined therapy consisting of azelaic acid, ascorbic acid, and phytic acid applied layer on layer.. Twenty study participants received a series of eight treatments performed every 7 days. Twenty percent azelaic acid and then 30% phytic acid were applied to the entire face, while 40% l-ascorbic acid only on the left side. The preparations were applied layer by layer. Skin parameters were measured before the series of treatments (T0), after the series of eight treatments (T1-8 weeks), and 1 month after the end of the treatment (T2-12 weeks).. The application of two and three active compounds resulted in a significant improvement in erythema and hyperpigmentation both on the forehead and the cheeks, however, more pronounced effects were observed when all the three active compounds were used. Both applied types of treatment considerably increased skin moisture. All the participants (100%) were satisfied with the effects of the treatment. A majority of them reported an improvement in skin hydration, firmness, and elasticity, more uniform skin tone and a reduction of skin redness and wrinkles.. Topical application of these active compounds resulted in improvement of skin elasticity and flexibility, reduction of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, erythema, and telangiectasia as well as amelioration of skin tone.

Topics: Aging; Ascorbic Acid; Female; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Phytic Acid; Skin Aging; Vitamins

Delivering bioactive compounds into skin tissue has long been a challenge. Using ex vivo porcine and rat skins, here we demonstrate that a detachable dissolvable microneedle (DDMN) array, a special dissolvable microneedle that allows needle detachment from the base within 2 min post administration, can effectively embed a model compound into epidermis and dermis. Diffusion of the compound from the needle embedding sites to the nearby skin tissue is demonstrated at various post administration periods. The relationship between the time that a conventional dissolvable microneedle array is left on skin without needle detachment from the base and the degree of skin surface abrasion at each microneedle penetration spot is also demonstrated on skin of human volunteers. Co-loading glutathione with vitamin C (vitC) can stabilize vitC in the DDMN. DDMN loaded with vitC and glutathione can help erasing post-acne-hyperpigmentation spots.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Diffusion; Drug Delivery Systems; Drug Stability; Epidermis; Glutathione; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Injections, Intradermal; Microinjections; Needles; Rats; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Swine

The standard management of acne vulgaris in Japan includes a combination of topical treatment with benzoyl peroxide (BPO) and BPO/clindamycin (CLDM), topical adapalene and systemic antimicrobials. However, the treatment of therapy-resistant complications such as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), erosions with inflamed red papules and atrophic scars has not been established. We performed chemical peeling with glycolic acid and iontophoresis with ascorbyl 2-phosphate 6-palmitate and DL-α-tocopherol phosphate for the treatment of PIH, erosions with inflamed red papules and non-inflamed atrophic scars in 31 patients with acne vulgaris (mild to severe severity), and evaluated the efficacy and safety of these interventions. In most of cases, there was remarkable improvement in PIH and erosions with inflamed red papules after treatment. There was also some improvement in non-inflamed atrophic scars without erythema. Mild redness and irritation was observed in four cases as adverse reactions. Early initial treatment of PIH and erosions with red papules by chemical peeling and iontophoresis is an effective and safe method to prevent the formation of atrophic scars in patients with acne vulgaris.

Topics: Acne Vulgaris; Adapalene; Adolescent; Adult; alpha-Tocopherol; Anti-Infective Agents; Ascorbic Acid; Atrophy; Benzoyl Peroxide; Chemexfoliation; Cicatrix; Clindamycin; Combined Modality Therapy; Erythema; Female; Glycolates; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Iontophoresis; Japan; Male; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome; Young Adult

A smile expresses feelings of joy, affection and self-confidence in an individual. Melanin hyperpigmentation of the gingiva jeopardises the aesthetics of an individual significantly. In the present case, gingival depigmentation was performed with a surgical scalpel along with local applications of ascorbic acid, yielding satisfactory aesthetic results with low subjective pain levels, and no recurrence has been observed after 9 months of follow-up.

Topics: Adolescent; Ascorbic Acid; Esthetics; Esthetics, Dental; Female; Gingiva; Gingival Diseases; Gingivectomy; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Smiling; Treatment Outcome

Treatment of melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation is often challenging. No ideal short-term and long-term treatment is available. Vitamin C alone and in combination with iontophoresis has been studied and found to be useful; however, no long-term studies have been published.. In this study, 35 patients (34 female, 1 male) were treated with a novel full-face iontophoresis mask (FFIM) and a proprietary vitamin C (ascorbyl glucoside) preparation. Patients received one in-office treatment and 12 to 24 at-home treatments over 1 to 2 months in conjunction with a strict maintenance regimen consisting of a mandelic/malic acid skin care regimen, broad-spectrum ultraviolet A/ultraviolet B sunblock, a wide-brimmed hat, and sun-avoidance behavior. Follow-up after the initial in-office treatment ranged from 1 to 54 months (mean, 26 months). Four independent observers graded improvement of melasma and PIH using a 4-point scale. Before the study, high-performance liquid chromatography was used to verify iontophoretic penetration of vitamin C into the skin to a level of 0.2 cm in healthy volunteers (2 male, 2 female).. A mean 73% improvement in abnormal pigmentation was observed at the end of FFIM/vitamin C treatment. Greater than 25% improvement was observed in 32 of 35 patients, and greater than 50% improvement in 22 of 35 patients. Melasma Area and Severity Index scores demonstrated substantial improvement from baseline for all patients, with a mean improvement of 15.7.. Full-face iontophoresis of vitamin C appears to be an effective short-term treatment for melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. A protocol of strict sun avoidance in combination with a mandelic/malic acid skin care regimen appears to be useful in maintaining the improvement.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Iontophoresis; Malates; Male; Mandelic Acids; Masks; Melanosis; Middle Aged; Skin; Skin Absorption; Sunscreening Agents; Treatment Outcome; Vitamins

Melasma is difficult to treat. Vitamin C, topical and by iontophoresis, has been shown to be useful. When lasers are used, there is a significant incidence of post-laser hyperpigmentation. There is no single established treatment for the latter. The case history of a 51-year-old Chinese woman is presented. Intravenous vitamin C appears to be useful in treating this complication.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Female; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Injections, Intravenous; Iontophoresis; Low-Level Light Therapy; Melanosis; Middle Aged

Objective methods of measuring skin color are needed to evaluate pigmentary lesions quantitatively. We have developed a new method of measuring skin color using a plastic bar system called the Skin Tone Color Scale based on Munsell's color space system. We have also evaluated the effectiveness of various therapies using this measurement system. Our system was designed to measure skin color in normal skin, pigmentary lesions of solar lentigo, chloasma and ephelides, and postinflammatory pigmentation. Moreover, effectiveness of various therapies for these pigmentary lesions was evaluated. The evaluations made with this system were closely related to physician assessment. This method may be useful in measuring of skin color and evaluating the effectiveness of therapies for pigmentary diseases.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Ascorbic Acid; Dermatologic Agents; Dermatology; Face; Female; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Laser Therapy; Lentigo; Melanosis; Middle Aged; Phototherapy; Skin Pigmentation; Statistics, Nonparametric; Tranexamic Acid

This study evaluated the effects of a manganese peptide complex in the treatment of various signs of cutaneous facial photodamage. Individuals used a facial serum formulation containing the manganese peptide complex Manganese Tripeptide-1 twice a day for up to 12 weeks. At the end of the treatment period, the individuals and a blinded investigator noted improvement in the appearance of several signs of cutaneous photodamage. Predominant among the parameters showing improvement were those associated with hyperpigmentation. In general, at the end of 12 weeks of treatment, photodamage ranking moved from moderate to mild. Treatment was well tolerated with no significant cutaneous inflammation induced by the manganese peptide complex.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adult; Aged; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Epidermis; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Middle Aged; Skin Aging; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome; Ultraviolet Rays

Vitamin C deficiency or scurvy is a disease now rarely seen except for certain populations at risk. When it occurs, diagnosis can be difficult as it can mimic other disorders. Its manifestations are primarily due to an abnormality in collagen formation causing bleeding in the skin, joints, muscles, or gastrointestinal tract and dystrophic hair deformities. We describe a case of scurvy in a 43-year-old man who presented with new onset hemarthrosis with no history of bleeding disorder. He was found to have perifollicular hyperpigmentation and corkscrew hairs, highly suggestive of scurvy. He admitted to completely eliminating fruits and vegetables from his diet and his serum vitamin C level was markedly decreased. Treatment with daily vitamin C supplement led to relief of symptoms and resolution of skin changes.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Diagnosis, Differential; Hemarthrosis; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Male; Scurvy; Skin

A case of Chediak-Higashi syndrome is reported in a four-year-old boy who presented with recurrent chest infection, partial albinism, hyperpigmentation of the extremities and presence of giant granules in leucocytes and melanocytes in the skin. Parental consanguinity was present. Though uncommon, hyperpigmentation of sun exposed areas may be the initial symptom in Chediak-Higashi syndrome.

Topics: Anti-Bacterial Agents; Arm; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Transfusion; Chediak-Higashi Syndrome; Child, Preschool; Combined Modality Therapy; Facial Dermatoses; Fatal Outcome; Humans; Hyperpigmentation; Leg; Male