Stackable Medical-Grade Skincare for the Cosmetic Medicine Patient: A Long-Term Pilot Assessment

Abstract

Abstract Background Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors influence aging and lead to visible changes in the skin, including dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, surface roughness, uneven pigmentation, and loss of luminosity. Although it is well established that a single combination of topicals can address multiple signs of skin aging, it is common for patients’ at-home skin treatment routines to include multiple different topicals with different active ingredients. The layering of active ingredients can cause skin irritation, and lead to noncompliance with a consistent routine. Further, multiple active ingredients may exacerbate irritation from in-office aesthetic treatments. Objectives To assess the long-term efficacy, safety, tolerability, and patient adherence to a Stackable Treatment topical routine consisting of 4 complementary topical formulations. Methods This study examined a daily topical routine (Stackable Treatment routine) consisting of 4 topical formulas with different active ingredients, and evaluated the routine's safety, tolerability, and efficacy in a composite of in-office treatment patients who applied the routine for a minimum of 1 year. Results Of the 14 patients, 0 experienced adverse reactions. Improvements to multiple skin parameters were observed, including improvements to skin hydration, surface texture, pigmentation, vasculature, and the appearance of scars. The majority of patients continue to use the Stackable Treatment routine after the study's conclusion. Conclusions The combination of low incidence of irritation, high patient satisfaction, and overall efficacy of the routine indicates the Stackable Treatment routine may be well suited as a foundational skin care regimen that can complement in-office aesthetic treatments. Level of Evidence: 4