Efficacy of handheld iontophoresis device in enhancing transdermal vitamin C delivery: A split-face clinical trial

Abstract

Background: The stratum corneum of the epidermis is the principal barrier in topical drug delivery. Currently, iontophoresis is incorporated in dermatology management to increase transdermal drug delivery. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of handheld iontophoresis device in enhancing transdermal vitamin C delivery. Methods: This was a prospective split-face clinical trial with a total of 24 subjects, who presented with photoaging skin. All subjects were treated with the handheld iontophoresis device on the left side of their face, twice a week for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes were the improvement in pore tightening and skin hydration. Evaluations were done at baseline, 2-, 4-, 6-, and 8-week follow-up. Subjects' self-improvement scores and adverse reactions were also recorded. Results: Out of 24 subjects, 17 (70.8%) completed the study protocol. Pore tightening in the iontophoresis group had significant improvement at 2- and 8-week follow-up when compared to the baseline (p = 0.019 and 0.026). Skin hydration on the iontophoresis group improved significantly at 4-week follow-up when compared to the baseline (p = 0.024). In the iontophoresis group, an image of the skin captured using Visioscan® showed improvement of skin texture and pore tightening at 8-week follow-up. Majority of the subjects in the iontophoresis group scored good improvement at 2-, 4-, and 6-week follow-up (41.7%, 29.2%, and 45.8%) when compared to the baseline. No adverse reactions were recorded. Conclusion: The handheld iontophoresis device is safe and can be used as an adjunctive home treatment in enhancing transdermal vitamin C delivery.