Topical Cyperus rotundus essential oil for treatment of axillary hyperpigmentation: a randomized, double‐blind, active‐ and placebo‐controlled study

Abstract

Summary Background The oil of the grass Cyperus rotundus (purple nutsedge) is an effective and safe treatment option for a variety of conditions. It has anti‐inflammatory and antipigmenting properties. There have been no clinical trials comparing topical C. rotundus oil with skin‐lightening treatments for axillary hyperpigmentation. Aim To assess the efficacy of C. rotundus essential oil (CREO) in treating axillary hyperpigmentation, and compare with another active treatment hydroquinone (HQ) and a placebo (cold cream) in this study. Methods The study included 153 participants, who were assigned to one of three study groups: CREO, HQ group or placebo group. A tri‐stimulus colorimeter was used to assess pigmentation and erythema. Two independent experts completed the Physician Global Assessment, and the patients completed a self‐assessment questionnaire. Results CREO had significantly (P < 0.001) better depigmenting effects than HQ. CREO and HQ did not differ significantly in terms of depigmentation effects (P > 0.05); however, there were statistically significant differences in anti‐inflammatory effects and decrease in hair growth (P < 0.05) in favour of CREO. Conclusions CREO is a cost‐effective and safe treatment for axillary hyperpigmentation.

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“…Major improvements in skin area were described by patients as a reduction in pigmentation and inflammation, a decline in hairs, hair weakening, lightening of hair color, and a reduction in hair luminance. Our results agreed with Mohammed GF 13,53,54 …”

“…46 A study emphasizes the anti-inflammatory properties of CREO and its importance in depigmentation. 13 This is in line with prior studies that anti-inflammatory and depigmenting representatives can aid for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 13,[47][48][49][50][51][52] As a consequence, decreasing inflammation reduces melanin synthesis.…”

“…The CREO extracts’ flavonoid, tannin, and polyphenol content are responsible for their immunomodulatory and anti‐inflammatory properties 46 . A study emphasizes the anti‐inflammatory properties of CREO and its importance in depigmentation 13 . This is in line with prior studies that anti‐inflammatory and depigmenting representatives can aid for treating post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation 13,47–52 .…”

“…Our results agreed with Mohammed GF. 13,53,54 The studies showed that CREO is an effective modality for treating moderate degrees of hirsutism and axillary hair (both dark and white). 53 Moreover, it is effective as Alexandrite laser in decease growth of black hair.…”

“…Cyperus rotundus essential oil (CREO) is an anti‐inflammatory agent and inhibits tyrosinase activity and thus depigments keratinocytes. Because of its biological properties, CREO is useful in treating hyperpigmentation 13 …”