Silymarin CF: A Breakthrough Antioxidant Formulation

At SkinCeuticals, we are proud to lead the field in topical antioxidant formulation. That’s why we are particularly pleased to introduce the latest innovation in the space: Silymarin CF.

This unique formulation topically delivers silymarin, a potent plant-derived antioxidant. The favorable effects of silymarin on the skin have been known for some time. In fact, our founder, Sheldon Pinnell, filed a patent for its use in 2003. However, formulating with silymarin is technically challenging, and much research was conducted in order to ensure that it was done properly in order to deliver optimal benefits to skin.

Silymarin CF is an exciting new product for several reasons. The light, aqueous formulation that targets lipid peroxidation in the sebum is especially well-suited for blemish-prone skin. An antioxidant formulation that addresses blemishes will be attractive to a range of adult women and men who continue to be frustrated by blemishes.

As with all SkinCeuticals products, Silymarin CF is formulated with a trio of key ingredients. In this case, antioxidant vitamin C and supportive ferulic acid boost the antioxidant benefits of the product. Salicylic acid is especially beneficial for helping to refine the pores in blemish-prone skin. As always, we’ve undertaken rigorous studies to assess the benefits of our products, and the results for Silymarin CF are impressive.

We are confident that Silymarin CF will be a welcome addition to your skincare recommendations. We are honored to partner with you in providing the best skincare to your patients.

— Alison A. Murakami, PhD
AVP, Medical Relations

What is Silymarin CF? Why is it billed as an antioxidant breakthrough?

Silymarin CF joins the well-known portfolio of antioxidants from SkinCeuticals that includes CE Ferulic and Phloretin CF. Silymarin, a potent antioxidant that helps prevent peroxidation of lipids in the sebum, is formulated with vitamin C and ferulic acid in an aqueous base that is light and suited for use on oily skin.

Silymarin is a “multimodal antioxidant.” It has been shown to protect against environmental aggressors, and it also has anti-aging benefits. Lipid peroxidation is a unique target for a topical skincare product. There has been increased focus on environmental oxidation that occurs in photodamage, and silymarin can help with that. But silymarin’s ability to prevent lipid peroxidation in the pores is what really makes the ingredient stand out. Blocking lipid peroxidation is important in interrupting the cascade for acne development.

Traditionally, SkinCeuticals has formulated its leading antioxidants into products with three hero ingredients (CE Ferulic has L-ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol, in addition to ferulic acid. Phloretin CF has L-ascorbic acid, 2% phloretin, and ferulic acid.) Similarly, Silymarin CF features the namesake antioxidant at 0.5% concentration, plus L-ascorbic acid 15% to help neutralize free radical damage, and ferulic acid 0.5% to enhance antioxidant performance. Together, these ingredients have beneficial effects on the signs of photoaging. Silymarin CF also contains salicylic acid 0.5%, which helps to “decongest” the pores.

The formulation has effects on signs of skin aging and is especially well suited for use by individuals concerned about blemishes.

What do studies show regarding the benefits of Silymarin CF? What are the clinical effects?

SkinCeuticals conducted numerous studies on Silymarin CF, particularly to evaluate its effects on sebum peroxidation. In one in vitro study, Silymarin CF reduced UVA-induced squalene peroxidation by an average of 82 percent, compared to untreated sebum. An in vivo analysis showed that, among adult volunteers who applied Silymarin CF daily, there was a 76 percent average reduction in lipid peroxidation at week 4 compared to baseline.

Among subjects exposed to three-times the minimal erythema dose (MED) of UV radiation, Silymarin CF was associated with 68 percent protection from erythema. This replicates UV exposure such as on a sunny day at the beach. In an analysis intended to replicate typical daily UV exposure, researchers assessed subjects exposed to three daily exposures of 1 MED. In this setting, Silymarin CF was associated with 79 percent protection from erythema, suggesting that the daily use product may be beneficial.

Among subjects with blemish-prone skin, daily use of Silymarin CF was associated with statistically significant improvement in skin clarity, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and overall appearance at week 4. Sebumeter analysis showed approximately a 16 percent reduction in oiliness at week 1.

An eight-week study of aesthetic benefits of Silymarin CF showed there was statistically significant improvement in clarity, texture, fine lines, radiance, skin tone evenness, and overall appearance. In fact, overall appearance improved by 41 percent.

Which patients are ideal candidates for Silymarin CF?

While the formulation could be used by a wide range of patients, it is especially well suited for use by individuals concerned about blemishes. The Silymarin CF aqueous formulation is ideal for use on oily skin. It is suitable across various skin types and age groups, but it will likely be especially popular for patients in their 20s and 30s, who continue to deal with frequent blemishes. The light formulation will appeal to patients, including many men, who don’t like heavy topicals.

Silymarin CF is intended for once daily application. Patients should cleanse and then apply four to five drops on the dry face, neck, and chest. Any other products can be layered on top. This includes a sunscreen, which should be a part of every patient’s daily skincare regimen. In the evening, patients can apply a retinoid and/or moisturizer.