Two is better than one: The combined effects of glycolic acid and salicylic acid on acne-related disorders.

Abstract

Many companies capitalized on treatable skin conditions by providing expensive prescription medications or high-end over-the-counter cosmetics. However, patients have become more apprehensive toward these medications in lieu of their often-detrimental side effect profile and reactivity with sensitive skin. We developed a serum was created to counteract this budding problem. Our goal was to bring an alternative prescription acne medication that was superior in controlling acne when compared to several OTC and prescription-strength medications. We created a new formulary comprising primarily of all natural glycolic acid and salicylic acid. We designed a prospective study to assess the efficacy of our serum composed of glycolic and salicylic acid for patients suffering from mild to moderate inflammatory and cystic acne, rosacea, folliculitis, and keratosis pilaris. Sixty-six patients were selected ranging in age from 17 to 46. They were asked to apply the wake-up serum at night for 2 weeks. At the follow-up appointment, the patients were asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding the changes they have noticed with their skin. Over 90% of the patients reported they had significant overall improvement in acne with decrease in comedonal and cystic acne. 70%-80% of the patients stated decrease in oiliness, even texture, and smoother looking skin. Physical examination findings were consistent with patient-reported assessment. A glycolic and salicylic acid combination serum may be considered an alternative treatment method for patients who wish to opt out of the typical prescription medication treatment.