Impact of previous skin hydration on postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation: a prospective, randomized, comparative study (SKINCARE Study).

BACKGROUND

Postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation (PSH) is a frequent and distressing complication. It is a cosmetic concern in aesthetic phlebology, with limited prospective efficacy/safety data. Skin hydration with moisturizer strengthens the skin barrier and may potentially prevent postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation.

METHODS

This prospective, randomized, comparative study included 55 adult patients with reticular veins and telangiectasias. Patients were randomized to receive a daily moisturizer for 30 days before sclerotherapy or to no hydration. All participants underwent a single session of polidocanol 0.5% sclerotherapy. The primary efficacy outcome was moisturization's ability to prevent PSH, as evaluated by blinded evaluators using photos taken before and after procedures. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported outcomes assessed using the VEINES-QoL/Sym questionnaire.

RESULTS

Both groups experienced hyperpigmentation. PSH appeared in fewer patients who received hydration (44% vs. 57%, P=0.423), with no statistically significant difference. No skin alterations occurred at any time point. Nine patients (90%) rated the results as "very good" or "excellent".

CONCLUSIONS

In this randomized, double-arm, prospective, pilot study, the use of moisturizer 30 days before polidocanol 0.5% sclerotherapy did not reduce PSH.