Randomized double-blind vehicle controlled study of the effects of topical acetyl zingerone on photoaging

Objective Acetyl zingerone (AZ), a derivative of the phytochemical zingerone from Zingiber officinale (ginger), is a novel compound that is purported to have antiaging properties. The objective of this clinical study was to assess the role of acetyl zingerone in its ability to improve the appearance of facial skin wrinkles, redness, pigmentation, and photoaging was assessed. Methods Thirty-one healthy participants (age 44 ± 7 years) were randomized in blinded fashion to apply either 1% AZ or placebo, consisting of the vehicle base cream, to the full face twice daily for 8 weeks with a total of 3 visits. Signs of photoaging, including wrinkles, dyspigmentation, and redness were assessed with facial image analysis photography and software. Results There was a significant decrease in average wrinkle severity (P = .019; Mean=-25.7% change), total wrinkle volume (P = .003; Mean=-30.1% change), pigment intensity (P = .021; Mean=-25.6% change), and redness intensity (P = .035; Mean=-20.7% change) in the AZ group by 8 weeks compared with the placebo. No significant itching, burning, or stinging was noted by study participants. There was also no significant difference between both groups in the clinical assessment of scaling, erythema, hypopigmentation, or hyperpigmentation. Conclusions and relevance Topical AZ improves photodamage and decreases the appearance of wrinkles, dyspigmentation, and redness intensity when compared to placebo (vehicle) formulation. Acetyl zingerone is well tolerated with daily use.