Herbal Compound May Reduce Dark Circles

CAMPINAS, Brazil—A Brazilian study found the reduction in the inflammatory process, as well as the antioxidant protection against deleterious elements from treatment with an herbal compound may be considered an integral approach to preserve the integrity of vascular endothelium, preventing the hemodynamic congestion that culminates in the formation of "dark circles" around the eyes (J Cosmet Derm 2009;8(2):127-135). Researchers wanted to evaluate the clinical effects of Pfaffia paniculata/Ptychopetalum olacoides B./Lilium candidum L.-associated compound (PPLAC) on periorbital hyperchromia (dark circles) and study in vitro its underlying anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. A total of 21 volunteers with periorbital hyperchromia received a serum sample containing 5.0 percent PPLAC, applied topically in the periorbital area twice a day for 28 days.

Topical application of PPLAC led to a significant improvement in skin luminance and tone in the periorbital area in about 90 percent of volunteers. In addition, subjects reported reduced intensity and improved appearance of “dark circles.” A dose-dependent decreased production of inflammatory mediators, concomitant to increased antioxidant enzyme levels, was observed in our in vitro studies, under basal and lipopolysaccharide-stimulated conditions.