Evaluation of a New, Advanced Antioxidant Containing Topical Allyl Pyrroloquinoline Quinone: Analysis of Antioxidant Properties and Visible Effects in Subjects with Facial Photodamage.

Objectives: Evaluate the effects of a new antioxidant containing topical allyl pyrroloquinoline quinone (TAP) on expression of key markers and assess the efficacy and tolerability in subjects with photodamaged skin. Methods: Donor skin tissue was irradiated prior to and following application of study products (TAP; a leading antioxidant cream [L-VC]). Expression of markers related to epidermal homeostasis and oxidative stress were assessed at 48 hours and compared to untreated, irradiated control (n=3 each). Evaluation of lines/wrinkles, skin texture, skin tone, dullness, and erythema from baseline occurred over 12 weeks in subjects with mild-to-moderate photodamaged skin. Histological evaluation occurred at Weeks 6 and 12 (n=4). Results: Following application of TAP, significant expression of markers related to epidermal homeostasis and repair, recycling and removal, and oxidative stress were demonstrated, compared to control (p<0.05). Reduced expression of collagen degrading enzymes, compared to control, were observed (p<0.05). Application of L-VC demonstrated nonsignificant expression of markers versus control. In 40 subjects evaluated over 12 weeks, significant mean improvements from baseline were observed at Week 4 in skin texture and dullness (both p<0.0001) and skin tone and lines/wrinkles (both p=0.01). The study product was highly tolerable. Histologic evaluation demonstrated reductions in solar elastosis from baseline at Weeks 6 (33%, p=0.01) and 12 (60%, p=0.002). Conclusion: An antioxidant containing TAP addresses internal and external manifestations of photoaging. TAP demonstrated significant expression of key markers associated with epidermal homeostasis and counteracting oxidative stress. Significant, early improvements in the appearance of photodamaged skin and histological improvements in solar elastosis were observed.