- 2026-02-01
- Journal of cosmetic dermatology 25(2)
- Jianhua Zhang
- Shichao Liu
- Wenjiao Guo
- Na Li
- Li Ye
Study Design
- Type
- Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
- Population
- 30 healthy female subjects
- Methods
- randomized, double-blind, split-face study; one hemiface applied TTS cream, contralateral side applied control moisturizing toner after IPL
- Blinding
- Double-blind
- Duration
- 28 days
Background
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is widely used for skin rejuvenation but frequently induces transient skin barrier impairment, erythema, and discomfort. Post-procedure skincare targeting barrier repair and symptom relief remains a clinical priority.Objective
To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and satisfaction of a cream containing 4-tert-butylcyclohexanol, Tephrosia purpurea seed extract, and Schisandra sphenanthera extract (TTS cream) in facilitating skin recovery after IPL therapy.Methods
In this randomized, double-blind, split-face study, 30 healthy female subjects received IPL therapy. One hemiface was randomly applied TTS cream, and the contralateral side was applied a control moisturizing toner after IPL. Objective instrument assessments were conducted at baseline (D0), post-IPL (D0'), 30 min post-application (D30min), and on days 3 (D3), 7 (D7), 14 (D14), and 28 (D28). Subjective assessments and satisfaction surveys were concurrently collected.Results
IPL therapy significantly increased TEWL, erythema, and skin dehydration at D0' (p < 0.01). At D30min, compared to the control, TTS cream significantly improved skin hydration (∆ = 12.79 vs. 0.32 C.U., p < 0.01). At D28, TTS cream significantly reduced erythema index (∆ = -54.61, p < 0.01), erythema area (∆ = -7.02%, p < 0.01), and TEWL (∆ = -4.41 g/m2 h, p < 0.01). Subjective assessments confirmed TTS cream significantly alleviated stinging, burning, and redness (p < 0.01). Satisfaction rates reached 100% for gentleness and 96.67% for symptom relief. No adverse effects were reported throughout the study.Conclusions
These findings indicate that the TTS cream effectively enhances skin barrier recovery, reduces erythema, and relieves discomfort following IPL therapy, highlighting its potential application in the postoperative care of aesthetic medicine.