A Multi-center Trial Evaluating a Serum Comprised of Plant-based Adaptogens Targeting Skin Quality

The ability of the skin to maintain homeostasis declines with age. Adaptogens support the capacity of the skin to respond to stress. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of a novel serum comprised of plant-based adaptogens for improving photoaged skin following twice-daily application.

A multi-center, 12-week trial was conducted in participants aged 45 to 65 years, Fitzpatrick Skin Type (FST) I to VI, with mild-to-severe photoaging based on a 10-point grading scale (3 [Minimum] to 7 [Maximum]). Visible improvements were assessed in erythema, pore size, skin dullness, skin texture, and uneven pigmentation utilizing a six-point grading scale (0=None to 5=Severe). Global skin quality was measured utilizing our Global Skin Quality Index (GSQI). Sebum measurements were obtained in a subset of participants. Patient satisfaction and tolerability were recorded throughout the study.

Fifty-three participants were enrolled and completed the study. Mean age was 56 years and 66 percent were White, 17 percent were Black, 8 percent were Hispanic, 6 percent were Asian/Pacific Islander, and 81 percent had moderate photodamage. At Week 12, significant mean percent improvements from baseline were demonstrated in erythema (50%), dullness (44%), texture (52%), pore size (23%), and uneven pigmentation (21%; all p<.0001). Significant GSQI improvements from baseline were observed at Week 12 (39%; p<0.0001). Significant mean reductions from baseline in skin surface sebum were demonstrated at Week 12 (-38%; p<0.0001). All adverse events (AEs) were mild and transient.

A novel serum comprised of plant-based adaptogens, demonstrated improvements from baseline in the appearance of erythema, dullness, texture, pore size, uneven pigmentation, and global skin quality over 12 weeks. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction, with mild, transient AEs reported.