A Split-face, Controlled Study to Assess the Compatibility of Tretinoin 0.05% Acne Lotion with Facial Foundation Makeup

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to assess compatibility of tretinoin 0.05% acne lotion with foundation makeup. DESIGN: This was a single-center, evaluator-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Participants were randomized to apply tretinoin 0.05% lotion to either the right or left side of the face before applying full-face foundation makeup. SETTING: Participants were enrolled at a single center in the United States. PARTICIPANTS: Female individuals aged 18 to 50 years who used facial foundation makeup ≥5 days per week were included. MEASUREMENTS: Investigator-assessed grading for foundation coverage and participant evaluations of makeup appearance were conducted at post-makeup application (Post-Makeup) and Hour 6 (6H) timepoints. Antera 3D® images were taken for skin texture roughness analysis and tolerability evaluations were performed at baseline, post-tretinoin application, Post-Makeup, and 6H timepoints. RESULTS: A total of 30 participants were enrolled and 29 completed the study. There were no significant differences between tretinoin treated and untreated sides for any outcomes of investigator-assessed grading of foundation (percentage coverage, blotchiness, overall coverage, skin tone evenness, visual smoothness). There was a small but statistically significant worsening in percent coverage at 6H versus Post-Makeup on the untreated side, but not the treated side. As rated by participants, even/full coverage and skin smoothness were significantly better on the tretinoin-lotion treated versus the untreated side. Three-dimensional imaging showed there were no significant differences in skin roughness between the treated and untreated sides. Participants reported overall satisfaction with the tretinoin lotion-treated side. CONCLUSION: Tretinoin 0.05% lotion did not interfere with facial makeup application or wearability and was well tolerated.

Keywords: Retinoid; acne; foundation; lotion; makeup; tretinoin.

FIGURE 1.

Investigator-assessed clinical grading of foundation coverage scores (PP population). *P<0.05 for 6H vs. Post-Makeup timepoint on the untreated side. There were no significant differences between treated and untreated sides at either timepoint (Post-Makeup or 6H). Treated=tretinoin 0.05% lotion. 6H: 6 hours (±1 hour) Post-Makeup; Post-Makeup: post-makeup application; PP: per protocol; SD: standard deviation

FIGURE 2.

Participant-assessed makeup scores (PP population). *P<0.05 for treated vs untreated sides at Post-Makeup timepoints. There were no significant differences between 6H and Post-Makeup for either treatment group (treated or untreated). Treated=tretinoin 0.05% lotion. 6H: 6 hours (±1 hour) Post-Makeup; Post-Makeup: post-makeup application; PP: per protocol; SD: standard deviation

FIGURE 3.

VISIA imaging of skin texture roughness in standard light conditions. Photographs from a representative patient. Individual results may vary. 6H: 6 hours (±1 hour) Post-Makeup; Post-Makeup: post-makeup application; Post-Tretinoin: post-tretinoin lotion application