Effects of alpha-hydroxy acids on photoaged skin: a pilot clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural study.
Publication/Presentation Date
2-1-1996
Abstract
BACKGROUND: alpha-Hydroxy acids (AHAs) have been reported to improve aging skin. The mechanisms of action of AHAs on epidermal and dermal compartments need clarification.
OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to determine the effects of AHAs on photoaged human skin by clinical and microanalytic means.
METHODS: Patients applied a lotion containing 25% glycolic, lactic, or citric acid to one forearm and a placebo lotion to the opposite forearm for an average of 6 months. Thickness of forearm skin was measured throughout the study. Biopsy specimens from both forearms were processed for analysis at the end of the study.
RESULTS: Treatment with AHAs caused an approximate 25% increase in skin thickness. The epidermis was thicker and papillary dermal changes included increased thickness, increased acid mucopolysaccharides, improved quality of elastic fibers, and increased density of collagen. No inflammation was evident.
CONCLUSION: Treatment with AHAs produced significant reversal of epidermal and dermal markers of photoaging.
Volume
34
Issue
2 Pt 1
First Page
187
Last Page
195
ISSN
0190-9622
Published In/Presented At
Ditre, C. M., Griffin, T. D., Murphy, G. F., Sueki, H., Telegan, B., Johnson, W. C., Yu, R. J., & Van Scott, E. J. (1996). Effects of alpha-hydroxy acids on photoaged skin: a pilot clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 34(2 Pt 1), 187–195. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0190-9622(96)80110-1
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
8642081
Department(s)
Department of Medicine
Document Type
Article