# A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Genistein Plus Bakuchiol and Vitamins (GEN+) Product for Male Facial Skin: Effects on Skin Appearance and Properties

## TL;DR

A skincare product containing genistein, bakuchiol, and vitamins improved male facial skin appearance, including lightening and reducing spots, in a 12-week trial.

## Contribution

This is the first randomized controlled trial evaluating the GEN+ product's effects on male facial skin aging.

## Key findings

- GEN+ improved cheek skin lightening and color consistency after 12 weeks.
- GEN+ reduced forehead spots significantly compared to placebo.
- The product was well-tolerated with mild and self-resolving adverse events.

## Abstract

With increasing life expectancy, the aging population, particularly in Asia, is expanding rapidly. Combined with intense year‐round ultraviolet exposure, this accelerates skin aging. Male skin also exhibits distinct aging characteristics. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Genistein Plus Bakuchiol and Vitamins (GEN+) product on male facial skin.

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was conducted in men aged 45–65 years. Participants were assigned to receive either the GEN+ or placebo (PLA) product in a 1:1 ratio and applied the product twice daily for 12 weeks. Facial skin assessments were performed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12. Evaluated parameters included skin color and consistency, spots, pigmentation, redness, acne, elasticity, hydration, barrier function, and wrinkles. Compliance and satisfaction were also monitored.

Eighty male participants were enrolled (GEN+: n = 40; PLA: n = 40). After 12 weeks, the GEN+ group demonstrated significant improvements in cheek skin lightening (MD = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.03 to 1.08, p = 0.04) and color consistency (MD = –0.56, 95% CI: –1.06 to –0.06, p = 0.03), along with a reduction in forehead spots (MD = –0.60, 95% CI: –1.15 to –0.06, p = 0.03). No significant differences were observed in melanin‐, erythema‐, or acne‐related parameters. Skin property parameters did not differ significantly between groups, except for skin roughness. Adverse events were mild and self‐resolving. While satisfaction scores did not differ significantly, the GEN+ group reported higher scores across most domains.

The GEN+ product demonstrated promising improvements in male facial skin appearance, including skin lightening, color consistency, and spot reduction. The product was well‐tolerated and offered a safe, targeted skincare solution for men.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: TCTR20240312001