Ex VivoSkin model or tissue experiments. Not in living humans.Skin Barrier DamagePublished: March 24, 2026
Niacinamide skin permeation may be influenced by pH levels
Researchers studied how different pH levels affect the way niacinamide, a common skincare ingredient, passes through the skin. They found that a neutral pH may increase niacinamide's permeation, but more research is needed to understand this effect. The study also looked at how pH changes the skin's electrical properties and how it affects the conversion of niacinamide into another compound.
Why it matters: Understanding how pH affects niacinamide's skin permeation may help skincare product developers create more effective products.
This study used full-thickness human skin and 3D reconstructed epidermal tissue models in lab experiments, and its findings may not directly apply to real-world skincare products or individual skin types.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.HyperpigmentationPublished: March 23, 2026
Topical NAD Skinbooster May Help Reduce Melasma
Researchers studied a new treatment for melasma, a skin condition causing dark patches, using a topical NAD booster applied after microneedling sessions. A small study found that this treatment reduced the severity of melasma in 36 Korean women over 21 weeks. The treatment was well-tolerated, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Why it matters: This study may contribute to the development of new treatments for melasma, a common skin condition affecting many people.
This study was a small case series with a limited sample size and short duration. Further research is needed to confirm its findings and establish the treatment's long-term safety and efficacy.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Dark Spots / Post-Inflammatory HyperpigmentationPublished: March 13, 2026
Microneedle Patches May Help Treat Hyperpigmentation
Researchers studied microneedle patches containing niacinamide, glabridin, and tranexamic acid for treating hyperpigmentation. They found that these patches may be more effective than traditional topical creams in reducing skin discoloration. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This study may help improve our understanding of how to treat hyperpigmentation, a common skin condition that affects many people.
The study focused on a small group of participants and had a limited duration. Further research is needed to confirm the results and expand them to diverse skin types.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Fine LinesPublished: December 1, 2025
Formula May Help Improve Skin After Laser Treatment
Researchers studied a skincare formula containing hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriol and niacinamide to see if it helps improve skin after a nonablative laser treatment. They found that the formula may help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and skin roughness. The study only looked at people who had just had a laser treatment, so it's not clear if the formula would work for people with other skin concerns.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare professionals understand how to care for skin after laser treatments and potentially improve the effectiveness of these procedures.
This study only looked at people with White or Northeast Asian skin, and the results may not apply to other skin types. The study only lasted 56 days, so it's not clear if the formula would have long-term benefits. The study only compared the formula to a clinical control, not a placebo.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.HyperpigmentationPublished: November 28, 2025
Niosomal creams may help manage melasma
Researchers studied the effectiveness of two types of creams containing tranexamic acid and niacinamide in treating melasma, a common skin condition. The creams were compared to a standard treatment containing hydroquinone. The study found that both types of creams were as effective as the standard treatment in reducing skin pigmentation and improving quality of life. However, the standard treatment had more side effects and relapse.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare professionals understand alternative treatments for melasma, a common skin condition.
A total of 99 patients were studied over a period of three months. The study was randomized and double-blind, but the sample size was not specified as small.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.HyperpigmentationPublished: November 27, 2025
Topical treatments for melasma may help reduce skin discoloration
Researchers studied various topical treatments for melasma, a skin condition causing brown or gray patches. They found some treatments may be effective in reducing skin discoloration, but more research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy. These treatments include thiamidol, tranexamic acid, metformin, niacinamide, kojic acid, and ascorbic acid.
Why it matters: Understanding the effectiveness of these treatments may help individuals with melasma find suitable options for managing their condition.
The review is based on existing literature and may not reflect the most up-to-date findings. Further rigorous, large-scale clinical trials are needed to establish the long-term safety and efficacy of these treatments.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.Dark Spots / Post-Inflammatory HyperpigmentationPublished: August 1, 2025
Axillary Hyperpigmentation Treatment Options May Help Reduce Discoloration
Researchers studied various treatments for axillary hyperpigmentation, a common skin discoloration issue. They found that some topical creams and light/laser therapies may help reduce pigmentation. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: Understanding effective treatments for axillary hyperpigmentation may help individuals manage this common skin concern.
The studies included in this review had varying degrees of sample size and duration, and some were focused on specific treatments or populations.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.HyperpigmentationPublished: July 1, 2025
Topical Serum May Help Reduce Under-Eye Dark Circles
A small study evaluated a new topical serum for reducing under-eye dark circles. The serum contained a blend of active ingredients and was applied twice daily for 6 weeks. Researchers found that it may help reduce the appearance of under-eye hyperpigmentation by an average of 47.94%. The study did not report any adverse effects.
Why it matters: This study may contribute to a better understanding of how to address under-eye dark circles, a common concern for many people.
A small study with a short treatment duration of 6 weeks, and no information on long-term effects or comparison to other treatments.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.AcnePublished: June 1, 2025
Microneedling with Pbserum May Help Improve Acne Scar Appearance
Researchers studied a treatment combining microneedling with a serum called Pbserum Specific Acne Scars. The serum contains several ingredients that may help reduce inflammation and improve skin texture. A small study found that this treatment may improve the appearance of acne scars after four applications over four months.
Why it matters: This study may contribute to our understanding of how to improve the appearance of acne scars, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
This study had a small sample size of 29 patients and was conducted over a relatively short period of four months.
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments. No human or animal data.AcnePublished: February 12, 2025
Combining Skin Brighteners May Help Niacinamide Penetrate Skin Better
Researchers used computer simulations to study how combining niacinamide with other skin brightening agents affects its ability to penetrate the skin. They found that when all three compounds were combined, niacinamide penetration increased. However, the study was conducted in a lab and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare product developers create more effective products that improve skin appearance.
This study was conducted in a lab using computer simulations and has not been tested in humans. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: December 17, 2024
New Spray May Help Heal Antibiotic-Resistant Wound Infections
Researchers developed a spray that combines a special polymer and nanoparticles to target and kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In lab experiments and animal studies, this spray showed promise in healing wounds infected with resistant bacteria. The spray works by physically damaging bacterial membranes and interfering with bacterial metabolism.
Why it matters: This research may help us better understand how to treat skin infections that don't respond to traditional antibiotics.
This study was conducted in mice and in lab experiments, so its effectiveness in humans is unknown. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.HyperpigmentationPublished: December 1, 2024
Skincare Regimen May Help Improve Uneven Skin Tone
A new skincare regimen consisting of four products was studied for its ability to improve uneven skin tone in people with sensitive skin. The regimen included an exfoliating cleanser, an antioxidant serum, a day cream with SPF, and a renewing cream. Researchers found that participants who used the regimen for 12 weeks reported improved skin tone and a reduction in the appearance of dark spots.
Why it matters: Understanding how to improve uneven skin tone may be important for people looking for effective skincare routines.
A small study with 43 participants was conducted over a 12-week period, and results may not be generalizable to the broader population.