Background: Chronic exposure to the sun causes the skin to prematurely age. Photodamaged skin is characterized by progressive damage to the dermal extracellular matrix with loss of collagen and degradation of elastin. Clinical manifestations of such photoaged or photodamaged skin include wrinkles and irregular pigmentation. Various cosmetic treatments including topical retinoids, growth factors, and skin lighteners have shown some benefit. Salts of copper chlorophyllin complex are semi-synthetic naturally derived compounds with anti-oxidant and wound healing activity that has not been previously tested in photodamaged skin.
Objectives: This single-center pilot study was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of a liposomal dispersion of topically applied sodium copper chlorophyllin complex in women with mild-moderate fine lines and wrinkles in the periocular areas and facial solar lentigenes over a course of 8 weeks.
Methods: Subjects were supplied with the test product, a topical gel containing chlorophyllin complex salts (0.066%), with directions to apply a pea-sized amount to the periocular areas, cheeks and nose every morning and evening. Clinical assessments were performed at screening/baseline and at week 8. Standardized digital photographs were taken and self-assessment questionnaires were conducted.
Results: Ten subjects completed the 8-week study. All clinical efficacy parameters showed statistically significant improvements over baseline at week 8. The study product was well tolerated. Subject questionnaires showed the test product was highly rated.
Conclusions: In this pilot study, a topical formulation containing a liposomal dispersion of sodium copper chlorophyllin complex was shown to be clinically effective and well tolerated for the treatment of mild-moderate photodamage and solar lentigenes when used for 8 weeks.