Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are widely used for Type 2 diabetes and weight management but may adversely affect skin quality, resulting in dermal thinning, decreased elasticity, and accelerated aging-a phenomenon referred to as "GLP-1 Face." A novel topical serum, GLPSGLT (Aforé LLC), was developed to counteract these effects using a proprietary blend of a bioavailable retinoic acid derivative, peptides, and botanical agents to support keratinocyte function and dermal repair. The authors of the study aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of GLPSGLT serum in improving facial skin quality in patients undergoing GLP-1 RA or SGLT-2 therapy. In this split-face, double-blind pilot study, 7 female patients (median age 55) on stable GLP-1 RA/SGLT-2 therapy applied GLPSGLT serum to one side of the face and placebo to the other, twice daily for 6 weeks. Assessments at baseline, Day 21, and Day 42 included the Global Ranking Scale (GRS), standardized photography reviewed by a blinded physician, and a 26-item patient-satisfaction questionnaire. Treated sides showed statistically significant improvements across all 13 GRS domains vs placebo (P < .0001), particularly in hydration, surface roughness, pigmentation, vasculature, visible pores, and static wrinkles. The blinded reviewer correctly identified the treated side in all cases. Patients reported greater satisfaction with skin texture, firmness, radiance, and hydration. No adverse events were reported. GLPSGLT serum significantly improved skin quality in GLP-1 RA/SGLT-2-treated patients and was well-tolerated, warranting further investigation in larger, histologically assessed cohorts.