Peptide face cream compared side-by-side for skin hydration and barrier

Evaluation of the Effect of a Topical Formulation Containing Acetyl Hexapeptide-37 on Objective Skin Barrier Parameters of the Face in a Randomized Controlled Split-Face Design

Not applicable Interventional University of Split, School of Medicine · NCT07548424

This will test whether a face cream with Acetyl Hexapeptide-37 improves skin hydration and reduces water loss on one side of the face compared with a placebo in healthy adults.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Split, School of Medicine Academic / other
Locations1 site (Split)
Trial IDNCT07548424 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The trial uses a split-face design in healthy adult volunteers to compare a topical cream containing Acetyl Hexapeptide-37 against a placebo cream applied to the opposite side of the face. Baseline and follow-up measurements include skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and erythema to detect changes in barrier function and irritation. Participants also provide ratings of comfort and tolerability while using the products. Outcomes compare the treated and placebo sides to determine any differences in skin barrier metrics or adverse effects.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Healthy adults without active facial skin disease who are not pregnant or breastfeeding and are not using topical or systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: People with active dermatologic conditions, known allergy to any product ingredient, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those on corticosteroids/immunosuppressants are unlikely to benefit or are excluded.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If effective, the peptide cream could provide a simple topical method to increase facial skin hydration and strengthen the skin barrier with minimal systemic risk.

How similar studies have performed: Prior small cosmetic studies of topical peptides have shown mixed effects on skin appearance, but direct evidence that Acetyl Hexapeptide-37 improves hydration or barrier function is limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* healthy volunteers who gave written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* presence of active skin diseases or dermatological conditions
* known allergy or hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the study products
* pregnancy or breastfeeding
* use of topical or systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, or antihistamines prior to or during the study

Where this trial is running

Split

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Skin Barrier FunctionSkin HydrationTopical Peptide Effects on Facial Skin Barrier Function
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.