Effects of antioxidant-anti-inflammatory therapy on skin rejuvenation and repair. The clinical case series study

Abstract

Introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress play a crucial role in both intrinsic and extrinsic skin aging. Antioxidants act as powerful ROS scavengers, mitigating skin aging by neutralizing already-formed ROS and restoring skin oxygen homeostasis, thereby indirectly protecting DNA integrity. Aim: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a combined therapy involving antioxidants, peels, growth factors, mesopeptide cocktails, and microneedling on selected skin parameters. Material and methods: Twenty Caucasian female participants with skin phototypes II to IV and signs of aging were included. Each participant underwent a three-step treatment regimen consisting of sequential applications of peels, mesopeptide cocktails, and microneedling at 2-week intervals. Between sessions, participants applied a serum containing ferulic acid and adhered to photoprotective measures. Assessments included photographic documentation, videodermoscopic examinations, skin pH assessments, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements, and sebum quantification. Results: A general post-treatment improvement was observed in all participants, with 15 out of 20 individuals reporting lifting effects, wrinkle reduction, and enhanced skin tone. Additionally, reductions in hyperpigmentation, erythema, and skin flaccidity were noted. The mean pH measured on the cheek before treatment was 6.18 ±0.41, after 2 weeks: 5.95 ±0.47, after 4 weeks: 5.63 ±0.34, and after 6 weeks: 5.48 ±0.49. These differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant decrease in TEWL was observed after treatment (12.91 vs. 9.46 g/h/m²; p = 0.0008). Conclusions: The described three-step therapeutic regimen demonstrated excellent tolerability and safety. The observed improvements in nearly all measured skin parameters underscore the efficacy of this comprehensive approach to skin rejuvenation.