Vitamin C Reduces Trans-Epidermal Water Loss Following Fraxel Skin Resurfacing

Korean researchers, led by Hong-Ryul Kim, have determined that the use of topical vitamin C in Asian patients undergoing Fraxel skin resurfacing reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and helps to restore skin pH levels. The level II study, which appeared online in the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery journal (July 26, 2012), followed 44 Korean patients who received two Fraxel treatments spaced four weeks apart. One group used a topical vitamin C product for 12 weeks beginning one day after the first treatment. The second group used no topical agents. At 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks post treatment, the researchers measured colorimetric status, stratum corneum hydration, skin surface lipids, skin pH and TEWL. Between the two groups, a significant difference was seen in TEWL and skin pH levels, but not in colorimetric status, stratum corneum hydration or skin surface lipids. The authors concluded “Topical vitamin C application reduces the injury of the skin’s surface barrier after Fraxel laser and promotes restoration of skin pH. However, there is a limit with increasing skin lightness or decreasing skin redness.”