Novel Cosmeceutical to Improve Skin Quality, Reduce Photodamage and Decrease Actinic Keratoses: In Vitro, in Vivo, and Clinical Case Series Analysis

Abstract

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are visible markers of chronic ultraviolet (UV) induced photodamage and accelerated cutaneous aging, with an estimated annual progression risk of 0.025-16% to invasive squamous cell carcinoma. AKs may extend into deeper epidermal layers and remain clinically unapparent, contributing to recurrence and incomplete clearance. Two-thirds of cutaneous malignancies are thought to arise from pre-existing AKs, underscoring the importance of early, field directed intervention. While standard treatments such as cryotherapy and 5-fluorouracil are effective, they are limited by side effects, adherence challenges, and recurrence. Preventive strategies that enhance cellular repair, reverse photodamage, and support long-term field control are therefore increasingly sought.

In this study, we evaluated an adaptogenic, multi-active topical cosmeceutical incorporating Genoplex Microdelivery Activator (GMA) technology, containing niacinamide, bakuchiol, green tea and coffee extract, hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and ceramides. In vitro assays assessed effects on UV induced oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, extracellular matrix integrity, hypoxia-related signaling, and cellular senescence. In vivo antioxidant capacity was evaluated using PAOT analysis. A cohort of thirteen patients with recurrent facial AKs applied the formulation twice daily for ≥12 weeks, either as monotherapy or with adjunctive topical 1% simvastatin. Outcomes were assessed using the Actinic Keratosis Area and Severity Index (AKASI) and evaluation of standardized high-resolution photography. A separate real-world longitudinal analysis evaluated AK burden across consecutive visits in 48 patients from an independent dermatology clinic. Multicentre questionnaire data were analyzed to characterize patient-reported tolerability, satisfaction, and perceived effectiveness. The formulation demonstrated activity across biological pathways implicated in cutaneous aging and carcinogenesis. In vivo PAOT analysis showed up to a 95.5% reduction in reactive oxygen species. In vitro testing demonstrated attenuation of UV-induced inflammatory cytokines, restoration of extracellular matrix and hypoxia-related markers, and reduced expression of senescence-associated signals. Clinically, all patients in the prospective cohort improved, with a mean AKASI reduction of 2.10 (p<0.0001), visible improvement in surrounding photodamaged skin, and no treatment-related adverse events; four patients achieved near-complete lesion clearance, with the largest improvements observed in those receiving treatment containing adjunctive simvastatin. AK counts also demonstrated consistent reductions across consecutive visits, supporting durable benefit. Multicentre questionnaire data showed patients reports of 87% global satisfaction, 83% perceived effectiveness, and 96% with little to no side effects.

This adaptogenic cosmeceutical targets key biological drivers of aging skin, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, and cellular senescence. The reductions in AK burden, combined with visible improvement in surrounding photodamaged tissue, support this cosmeceutical as a promising adjunct for aesthetic and anti-aging practice Its favorable clinical, real-world, and patient-reported outcomes support its role as a field-directed, prevention-focused adjunct in aesthetic and anti-aging dermatology.