Tripeptide and hexapeptide topical as adjunct to nonablative fractional resurfacing for photodamage: A randomized split-face trial

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Dec;19(12):3245-3250. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13795. Epub 2020 Oct 31.

Abstract

Background: Topical adjuncts have been investigated to improve clinical outcomes associated with laser resurfacing for photodamage and cutaneous aging. One such product is a tripeptide/hexapeptide serum, which has been shown to increase dermal collagen and elastin as well as improve postprocedural recovery following treatments.

Aims: A randomized, blinded, split-face, comparative trial was performed to assess the utility of a tripeptide/hexapeptide serum as a peri-procedural adjunct to nonablative fractional laser resurfacing.

Patients/methods: A total of 20 subjects were enrolled. Each hemiface was randomized to either tripeptide/hexapeptide serum or bland moisturizer for twice daily application starting 14 days prior to first laser treatment and continuing until 60 days after. All subjects received 2 treatments to entire face approximately 1 month apart with 1927 nm thulium nonablative fractional laser. Clinical measures and immediate postprocedural recovery were assessed.

Results: For each hemiface, scores improved for all measures, including global photodamage, lentigines, pores, radiance, texture, and tone at 30 and 60 days. The tripeptide/hexapeptide serum had greater improvements for all measures at both time points, except for radiance at 60 days, which was equal. In cases where clinical ratings differed between sides, tripeptide/hexapeptide serum more frequently had the superior outcome. Overall, subjects were satisfied with tripeptide/hexapeptide serum. No significant adverse events were observed.

Conclusion: Addition of tripeptide/hexapeptide serum as a peri-procedural adjunct to nonablative fractional laser resurfacing improved various clinical measures of photodamage and cutaneous aging and the immediate postprocedural recovery. The tripeptide/hexapeptide serum was demonstrated to be safe, well-tolerated, and well-liked by subjects.

Keywords: aesthetics; dermatology; lasers; peptides; skin aging.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Elastin
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures*
  • Skin Aging*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Elastin

Grants and funding