Efficacy of a Topical Serum Combined with a Sunscreen on Pigmented Macules of the Face and Neck: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial on Dark Skin in Sub-Saharan Africa

¹Dermatology department of the Hospital and University Center of Treichville, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

²University Félix Houphouet-Boigny, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

*Corresponding author: Kourouma Hamdan Sarah, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Treichville University Hospital, Abidjan / University Felix Houphouët-Boigny, Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tel: +225 07 07 72 59 82, ORCID: 0000-0002-9077-7010; Email: [email protected]

Received Date: August 19, 2024

Publication Date: August 29, 2024

Citation: Sarah KH, et al. (2024). Efficacy of a Topical Serum Combined with a Sunscreen on Pigmented Macules of the Face and Neck: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial on Dark Skin in Sub-Saharan Africa. Dermis. 4(4):21.

Copyright: Sarah KH, et al. © (2024).

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The efficacy of chemical depigmenting agents on dark and very dark skin (phototypes IV to VI) remains poorly documented. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a topical serum combined with a sunscreen on hyperpigmentation in a population with pigmented skin in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: This was a non-randomized clinical study in a Dermatology-Venerology Department during 4 months. The patients included were over 18 years of age and presented with hyperpigmented macules on the face or neck. The protocol consisted of the application of a topical serum and a sunscreen to the face and neck. The efficacy of these products was assessed using a melanin index meter (MASI score). Results: Forty-six (46) women with dark phototypes (IV, V, VI) were included. The mean age was 33.8 ± 8.7 years (16-50 years). Hyperpigmentation after acne predominated (67.4%). Comparison of the mean hyperpigmentation index showed a significant difference (p<0.001). Comparison of the mean Healthy Skin Index showed that the Serum Booster significantly improved participants' skin tone at Day 30 and this improvement increased through to D90. A comparison of the participants' MASI scores showed significant differences from day 30 (p=0.001). The percentage efficacy of the combination used on patients' pigmented macules was 91.3%. A comparison of participants' quality of life showed a significant difference (p=0.001) at D90. Participants reported no side effects or signs of intolerance. Conclusion: This clinical trial showed the efficacy of a depigmenting agent and a sunscreen on hyperpigmentation of dark phototypes in Africa.

Keywords: Africa, Hyperpigmentation, Pigmented Skin, Pigmentation Disorders, Sun Protection Factor