A topical formulation combining tretinoin with a skin-barrier-supporting ingredient reduces redness, dryness, and irritation associated with retinoid use.
Key Takeaways:
- Topical Formula Reduces Retinoid Irritation – A study found that combining tretinoin with a skin-barrier-supporting ingredient significantly reduced skin irritation.
- Improved Tolerance Without Compromising Efficacy – The formulation decreased redness by 68% and dryness by 47%, with no reported adverse events.
- Further Research Needed – While initial results are promising, researchers suggest larger, controlled studies to confirm the findings.
Retinoids are the gold standard for anti-aging, but the redness, peeling, and irritation can deter patients from continued use. But what if you could get the glow that retinol provides without the irritating side effects?
A new pilot study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlights a potential advancement in retinol tolerance. Epicutis Skincare’s proprietary TSC molecule (Tetramethylhexadecenyl Succinoyl Cysteine) was found to significantly reduce the irritation, redness, and dryness commonly associated with tretinoin (a prescription-strength retinoid that is much stronger than retinol) use while reinforcing the skin barrier.
The study was a five-day efficacy evaluation with five subjects performed at a third-party CRO (Validated Claim Support, Teaneck, NJ). There were four female and one male participant with a mean age of 35 years, ranging from 31 to 42 years.
The study found that a formulation of 0.5% TSC combined with 0.2% tretinoin reduced erythema (redness) by 68% and improved dryness by 47%, as compared to tretinoin use alone. No adverse events were observed.
“Altogether, given these initial encouraging results, further study of TSC in a dose-dependent manner in a larger, controlled study is warranted,” the authors of the study concluded.
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