A Split-face Double-blind Randomized Placebo-controlled Trial of the Efficacy of Kakadu Plum Extract for Reduction of Periorbital Wrinkles

Abstract

Background: Periorbital wrinkles result from both intrinsic and extrinsic aging. To combat aging and treat wrinkles, antioxidants play an important role by decreasing oxidative stress. Kakadu plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana) extract is well known for its great amount of vitamin C as main ingredient which can scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and give anti-aging effects.

Objective: To study effectiveness and satisfaction of Kakadu plum extract to reduce periorbital wrinkles

Method: 17 volunteers, both male and female of age between 25 and 60 years old who willingly wanted to get rid of their periorbital wrinkles were collected to participate in split-face double-blinded placebo-controlled trial for 8 weeks. 10% Terminalia ferdinandiana extract cream and placebo cream were instructed to apply twice daily to periorbital area for 8 weeks. Various parameters such as wrinkle evaluation by dermatologists, elasticity and hydration of the skin around the eyes (crow’s feet area and undereye area) were assessed at the start, 4^th and 8^th week respectively.

Result: Statistically significant results of better skin elasticity (p-value <0.001 at crow’s feet, p-value=0.029 at undereye) and better skin hydration (p-value=0.001 at crow’s feet, p-value=0.012 at undereye) were shown for Terminalia ferdinandiana extract treated side. No side effects were observed.

Conclusion: This study statistically demonstrated that Kakadu plum extract reduced periorbital wrinkles more than placebo cream when it is applied topically with no harmful side effects. So, 10% Terminalia ferdinandiana could be safe and effective to reduce periorbital wrinkles.