Use of ascorbic acid to reduce irritation of topically applied active ingredients

Abstract

The use of an effective amount of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) or one or more of its derivatives, has been found to decrease skin irritation caused by the topical administration of an active ingredient for treating a skin condition. Examples of the active ingredient include .alpha.-hydroxy acids, .beta.-hydroxy acids, keto acids, benzoyl peroxide, retinol (Vitamin A) , retinoic acid, retinal, Vitamin A.sub.2, Vitamin A epoxide, lactamides and quaternary ammonium lactates, C.sub.4-12 hydroxylated carboxylic acids, sulfur, resorcinol and salicylic acid, and various derivatives thereof. The ascorbic acid (or its derivatives) is present in effective amounts from about 0.5% to about 25% by weight. It is provided by topical application of a separate solution or by admixture with a cosmetically or pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle for the active ingredient.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.