TITLE:
Enhanced Skin Solar Protection and Repair via a Topical Antioxidant Complex
AUTHORS:
Amaryllis Aganahi, Richard Parker, Katie Matten, Yohei Tanaka
KEYWORDS:
Photoprotection, Photorepair, Hyperpigmentation, Gene Expression, Antioxidant, Rejuvenation
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications,
Vol.16 No.2,
June
1,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: To avoid the detrimental effects of solar skin exposure, including hyperpigmentation, skin laxity and loss of radiance, dermatologists routinely recommend sun avoidance and the daily use of sunscreens. Repair of sun damaged skin is usually addressed in terms of ablative or surgical procedures. Compared to the well documented effects of ultraviolet radiation, oxidative stress related to environmental conditions, including solar exposure, diet and lifestyle is often overlooked as a cause of skin damage and premature aging. Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the efficacy of a topical formulation comprised of a comprehensive antioxidant complex, an environmental protection complex and an optimized delivery system to enhance overall skin physiological and cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection from solar and environmental damage. Methods: The Formulation (#2LCRE.20) was tested for: in-vitro LDH cytotoxicity activity, qPCR gene expression on a 3-dimensional skin model, in-vivo efficacy on 21 patients introducing the Formulation into their pre-established skincare regimen with no other treatments and in-vivo experience testing on 7 subjects incorporating the Formulation into their pre-established skincare ritual including a weekly hyperpigmentation facial treatment in a professional skin clinic. Results: In-vivo data showed a significant improvement in skin hydration, hyperpigmentation, radiance, inflammation and redness after exposure to the Formulation. These results were supported by in-vitro testing, where six specific genes were upregulated. Conclusion: This study highlights the role that oxidation and antioxidant skin Formulations and Treatments can play in helping to prevent the damaging effects of solar and environmentally induced skin damage.