Abstract | BACKGROUND: Irregular skin pigmentation may be a substantial contributor to the signs of aging and to a person's lack of psychological well-being. Although a large number of skin-lightening agents are available, the opportunity exists to identify more efficacious agents, agents that target alternative biological mechanisms. AIMS: To provide clinical evidence of the skin-lightening effect of the tetrapeptide, Pro-Lys-Glu-Lys (PKEK), on subjects with skin types V-VI living in South Africa. METHODS:
Pro-Lys-Glu-Lys was evaluated in a double-blind and vehicle-controlled clinical study using expert grading of digital images by comparing its effects in subjects with skin types V-VI suffering from facial melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. RESULTS: This study demonstrated the efficacy of PKEK on subjects with skin types V-VI. On comparing the two treatments, the skin-lightening peptide-containing formulation was significantly superior to the vehicle at 12 weeks on overall appearance (P < 0.05) and evenness of skin tone (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The tetrapeptide, PKEK, has proven skin-lightening benefits on skin discoloration from melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. These studies have been conducted on subjects with skin types V-VI living in South Africa, but we believe this technology to be suitable for all racial groups.
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Authors | Mike Farwick, Ursula Maczkiewitz, Peter Lersch, Beverley Summers, Anthony V Rawlings |
Journal | Journal of cosmetic dermatology
(J Cosmet Dermatol)
Vol. 10
Issue 3
Pg. 217-23
(Sep 2011)
ISSN: 1473-2165 [Electronic] England |
PMID | 21896134
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Copyright | © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. |
Chemical References |
- Dermatologic Agents
- Oligopeptides
- prolyl-lysyl-glutamyl-lysine
- Glutamic Acid
- Proline
- Lysine
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Topics |
- Adult
- Dermatologic Agents
(therapeutic use)
- Double-Blind Method
- Face
- Female
- Glutamic Acid
(administration & dosage)
- Humans
- Lysine
(administration & dosage)
- Melanosis
(drug therapy)
- Middle Aged
- Oligopeptides
(therapeutic use)
- Proline
(administration & dosage)
- Skin Pigmentation
(drug effects)
- South Africa
- Treatment Outcome
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