A blinded study assessment of the efficacy of an original formula with retinol in combination with sonophoresis.

An appropriately designed cosmetic product and regimen of treatment can improve facial skin appearance and provide good tolerability. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of 0.3 and 0.5% retinol in liquid crystal formula, applied with sonophoresis, on mature skin. Serum with various concentrations of retinol was applied to the left and right sides of the face and treated with ultrasound. The treatments were performed once a week for a period of 7 weeks. The skin condition before and after treatment was compared using the Fotomedicus system. The Visual Analogue Scale method enabled the results to be assessed by three independent specialists. The Multi Probe Adapter system was used to evaluate the efficacy of a series of treatments. Subjective assessment of volunteers identified perceived improvement of skin conditions. In addition, treatment was associated with greater skin moisture level, reduced wrinkling and decreased skin discoloration. Mild side effects appeared mainly after the first treatment and on the left side of the face with 0.5% retinol. More significant results may be obtained by extending the treatment duration in longer-term studies. Nonetheless, the findings confirmed the effectiveness of the procedures.