Abstract
BACKGROUND: Facial dyspigmentation is a challenging concern which cannot easily be corrected. Although the application of topical exosomes has shown some efficacy, there is still scarce data addressing the role of plant-derived exosomes for skin hyperpigmentation. OBJECTIVES: This study using rose stem-cell-derived exosomes (RSCE) was performed as a proof-of-concept case series to evaluate the efficacy and safety of microneedling and topical RSCE, for the reduction of pigmentation and photoaging in adult volunteers. METHODS: Twelve female volunteers were recruited, with a mean age of 46.64 years and a moderate-to-severe facial pigmentation, due to solar lentigines, melasma, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, and periorbital hyperpigmentation. Three treatments were performed at 3 weeks intervals. These consisted of the topical application of RSCE with microneedling and a 20 min LED light with an RSCE-infused mask. A 3D facial analyzer was used to quantify improvement in superficial, deep pigmentation, skin redness, and wrinkles at baseline, Weeks 3, 6, and 12. Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), Dermatology Life and Quality Index (DLQI), and Melasma Quality of Life Scale (MELASQoL) scores were noted at the same time points. RESULTS: GAIS scores improved by at least 1 scale point. Superficial pigmentation and spots decreased by 12.95% and deep pigmentation improved by 15.9%, by Week 12. Skin redness was reduced by 7.34% at the same time point. The measured wrinkle reduction was 6.34%. DLQI scores were reduced by 10 points, and MELASQoL scores had a mean reduction of 30 points at Week 12. CONCLUSIONS: Improvement of facial pigmentation is possible when combining nonthermal microneedling and the use of topical RSCE.