This is an exploratory, cosmetic-use study evaluating the effects of Super Protein Multifunction (SPM™), a topical peptide-based formulation, on skin appearance, hydration, and barrier-related characteristics in healthy adults. The study aims to collect preliminary biophysical and histologic data on cosmetic skin changes following six weeks of SPM™ use. Participants will apply the product to a designated skin area while a matched contralateral area serves as the untreated comparison site. Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and tissue markers of skin structure and barrier integrity will be assessed before and after product use. The study includes noninvasive measurements and small punch biopsies at two timepoints.
SPM™ is a multi-component peptide formulation designed to support skin health and barrier function. Preclinical data demonstrate reduced expression of inflammatory cytokines and potential improvements in epidermal physiology. Prior clinical data in eczematous skin suggest reductions in inflammation and improvements in clinician-assessed skin ratings. This pilot study extends investigation into healthy adults to characterize cosmetic and structural skin attributes associated with SPM™ use. Participants aged 20-75 years will undergo screening, informed consent, and baseline assessments. Study procedures include Corneometer® hydration measurements, Tewameter® TEWL assessments, clinical photography, and 3-6 mm punch biopsies from both the application and comparison sites at baseline and end-of-treatment. Participants will apply SPM™ twice daily for 42 days. Follow-up phone calls occur after each biopsy to assess healing. A final safety follow-up visit occurs at Day 49 (±7 days) to evaluate recovery and participant-reported outcomes. Biopsy samples will be analyzed at Mayo Clinic Pathology Core Laboratories to assess filaggrin expression and general histologic features. Additional exploratory biomarkers may be assessed in future IRB-approved studies using stored tissue. Safety monitoring includes documentation of adverse events, with predefined stopping rules related to local tolerability, unexpected histologic findings, or systemic events. All study activities comply with ethical and regulatory standards, including 45 CFR 46, GCP, HIPAA, and WCG IRB oversight.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
10
Skin biopsies (3-6 mm) will be performed at two time points: Baseline (prior to initiation of SPM™ application) End of product-use period (after 6 weeks of twice-daily application) These samples will be analyzed for cosmetic-related skin structure and protein expression characteristics (e.g., filaggrin levels and barrier markers).
Noninvasive skin hydration assessment using the Corneometer® instrument at baseline and after 6 weeks. The device quantifies the moisture content of the stratum corneum through dielectric constant measurement.
Noninvasive transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurement using the Tewameter® device to assess barrier function before and after the 6-week product-use period.
Project Quality of Life
West Hollywood, California, United States
Change in skin structure and protein expression (filaggrin levels) after 6 weeks of SPM™ topical application
To evaluate histologic and protein expression changes in skin tissue following six weeks of twice-daily SPM™ topical application, compared to baseline and to the untreated control area. Paired punch biopsies (3-6 mm) will be collected at baseline and after completion of product use. Filaggrin expression and general tissue features (e.g., epidermal thickness, keratinocyte morphology, and barrier integrity) will be assessed via immunohistochemistry and histologic analysis.
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) and Week 6 - End of Product Use (Day 42 ± 7 days)
Change in Skin Hydration
Skin hydration will be quantified using a Corneometer® device at baseline and after six weeks of product use. Measurements will be performed on both the SPM™-treated area and the contralateral untreated control area.
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) and Week 6 - End of Product Use (Day 42 ± 7 days)
Change in Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)
Skin barrier function will be evaluated using a Tewameter® device to measure transepidermal water loss (TEWL) at baseline and after six weeks. Assessments will be performed at both treated and untreated areas to determine barrier-related effects of SPM™.
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) and Week 6 - End of Product Use (Day 42 ± 7 days)
Change in Skin Appearance (Photographic Assessment)
Standardized clinical photographs will be captured under consistent lighting and positioning conditions at baseline and after six weeks to document visible changes in skin texture, tone, and smoothness. Images will be assessed for cosmetic improvements using qualitative scoring.
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) and Week 6 - End of Product Use (Day 42 ± 7 days)
Safety and Tolerability (Adverse Events and Local Reactions)
Frequency and severity of product-related local skin reactions (e.g., erythema, irritation, dryness) and biopsy-related adverse events will be recorded and summarized.
Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) and Week 6 - End of Product Use (Day 42 ± 7 days)
Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication 9 (TSQM-9).
Participants will complete a self-reported questionnaire assessing perceived changes in skin comfort, hydration, smoothness, and overall cosmetic benefit after SPM™ use. Scores for each domain range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater satisfaction.
Time frame: End of study (Day 42-49)
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