A split-face study to evaluate the efficacy of a dissolving microneedle-encapsulated niacinamide skin patch for the reduction of facial hyperpigmentation

Abstract

Background This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a dissolving microneedle (DMN)-encapsulated niacinamide skin patch to reduce facial hyperpigmentation. Methods A split-face study was conducted between April and June 2022 in 17 patients treated with a DMN-encapsulated niacinamide skin patch, which was applied only on the right side of the face, while the left face remained free of a pigmentation-improving agent. A topical moisturizer and physical sunscreen were applied on both sides of the face for 2 weeks. We compared both sides of the face 2 weeks after applying the skin patch using an automatic skin analysis device to investigate skin pigmentation. The melasma severity scores of both sides were evaluated before and 2 weeks after application. Results A significant difference in the epidermal pigmentation score between pre-treatment and 2 weeks after treatment was noted on the right side (P0.05). A significant difference in the melanin score between pre-treatment and 2 weeks after treatment was noted on the right side (P0.05) of the face. There was no significant difference in the melasma severity score on either side of the face between pre-treatment and 2 weeks after treatment (P>0.05). Conclusions The application of a DMN-encapsulated niacinamide skin patch to improve skin pigmentation may yield good outcomes and provide comfort to patients without any complications.

Keywords

• hyperpigmentation
• vitamin b3
• skin