Study Comparing Effects of Topical Almond Oil and 2% Hydroquinone Cream on Facial Pigmentation and Skin Microbiome in Premenopausal Women

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying changes in facial pigmentation and skin microbiome after applying topical almond oil compared to 2% hydroquinone cream. This study involves 50 premenopausal women with specific skin types and aims to evaluate these treatments over a 4-month period to understand their effects on skin appearance and microbial balance. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one applying almond oil nightly and the other applying 2% hydroquinone cream nightly. The treatments will be used throughout the study duration, which spans from consent through five visits including assessment visits for skin pigment, hydration, and sebum rates. During the study, participants will undergo imaging and measurements to monitor facial pigment intensity, skin hydration, sebum excretion, microbiome diversity, and redness. Subjective tolerability will also be assessed. The study includes a two-week washout from certain topical products before visits, and adherence to study treatments and restrictions will be monitored over the total 4-month participation period.

Prospective Evaluation of Topical Almond Oil vs Hydroquinone