Publication:

Management of epidermal hyperpigmentation with a novel depigmenting formulation: a research survey

Background Epidermal hyperpigmentation is an important dermatological concern with a high prevalence in the Indian population. Kojic acid-based depigmenting formulations have proven to be effective in the management of epidermal hyperpigmentation. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to assess physicians’ knowledge about epidermal hyperpigmentation and practice patterns about a novel depigmenting formulation containing a combination of kojic acid dipalmitate 4%, azelaic acid 12%, glycolic acid 3%, niacinamide 4%, arbutin 2%, glycogen liquid 2%, sodium hyaluronate solution 2%, and shea butter 1% for epidermal hyperpigmentation treatment in India.

Methods The survey was conducted among 235 dermatologists across different geographical regions of India over 3 months. The questionnaire evaluated prevalence and choice and duration of therapies for epidermal hyperpigmentation in Indian clinical practice, and dermatologists’ real-life experience with efficacy of the novel formulation. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize survey results.

Results All 235 dermatologists completed the questionnaire and responded to questions based on experience in treating patients with epidermal hyperpigmentation. In all, 58% dermatologists preferred kojic acid-based combinations. Furthermore, 57% of dermatologists agreed that glycolic acid can enhance the penetration of kojic acid and azelaic acid, 47.45% strongly agreed that a kojic acid-based formulation could be a safe alternative to steroid and hydroquinone-based formulations. Overall, 67% of dermatologists agreed that the kojic acid-based formulations with additional moisturizers helped in faster resolution of epidermal hyperpigmentation compared to other depigmenting formulations.

Conclusions The survey findings indicate that the novel kojic acid-based formulation with additional moisturizers could be a preferred choice for epidermal hyperpigmentation management.