[Treatment of actinic aging with topical vitamin A acid in different concentrations]

Vitamin A acid has been used for 20 years in the local treatment of acne. In 1986, Kligman published a description of the efficacy of this molecule against skin ageing. In 1987, we began a study which is still in progress. It is intended to confirm the beneficial effects already observed in photosenescence and to demonstrate them by non-invasive methods and by standardized photographs. This study was randomized and carried out under double blind. Each patient acted as her own control. The concentration administered was 0.025 per cent for 6 months and then 0.05 per cent. The patient was followed up every month for 6 months and then every 4 months. The results demonstrated a reduction in the number and depth of the wrinkles and a regression of the pigmented spots. Safety was excellent and all the patients were highly satisfied with the treatment.