A Topical Cosmeceutical Approach to Submental Fullness in Indian Women: 12‐Week Prospective Study

TL;DR

A 12-week study found that a topical serum containing DMAE and retinol improved submental fullness in Indian women, offering a noninvasive solution.

Contribution

First systematic evaluation of a topical cosmeceutical for submental fullness in Indian women.

Findings

All 13 participants showed visible improvement in submental contour after 12 weeks.

Improvements were statistically significant in left and front profiles (p < 0.05).

No adverse events were reported, and results were independent of body weight changes.

Abstract

Submental fullness (“double chin”) is a common aesthetic concern among Indian women. No topical cosmeceutical has been systematically evaluated for this indication.

To assess the efficacy of a multi‐active topical serum containing DMAE and retinol in reducing submental fullness in Indian women.

This 12‐week, single‐center, open‐label study enrolled 16 women (ages 18–60) with mild‐to‐moderate submental fullness; 13 completed the trial. Subjects applied the serum nightly to the submental area. Standardized photographs were obtained at baseline and week 12 and were independently graded by two dermatologists using the validated Clinician‐Reported Submental Fat Rating Scale. Any discordance was evaluated and resolved by a third, umpire dermatologist. Body weight was monitored throughout.

All 13 completers showed visible improvement in submental contour. Dermatologist grading showed statistically significant improvements across all three views (p < 0.05), with the maximum change noted in the left and front profiles (r = 0.88 and 0.83, respectively) compared to the right profile (r = 0.61). Improvements were independent of body weight changes. No adverse events occurred.

This preliminary study demonstrates that a DMAE and retinol based topical serum can improve submental fullness in Indian women over 12 weeks, offering a noninvasive alternative to procedural interventions. Larger randomized controlled trials with objective volumetric endpoints are needed for validation.

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