Active Acne Research Articles

Psychological Impact of Acne and Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Among Sudanese Women

<i>Introduction: </i>Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin which often causes a negative impact on a woman's psychological state and quality of life. This study seeks to provide basic data and information about the psychological impact of acne on Sudanese women. <i>Methodology: </i>A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted during the period from June 2022 to January 2023. A total of 400 females aged 15 years and above were included in this study. These are Sudanese women who had suffered from acne in their lives, and who responded to the online study questionnaire. Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) was used to assess the psychological effect of acne.<i> Results: </i>Seventy one percent of respondents had active acne. Acne scars were observed in (74.8%) of participants, while post-acne hyperpigmentation was observed in (71.3%). Facial acne was the most common, as it was observed in (75.8%) of the respondents. The mean age at acne onset was 15.66 years and ranged between 10 and 36 years. Mild and moderate acne were the most common types, accounting for (37.0%) and (41.5%) of cases, respectively. Acne was found to affect the psychological state of the vast majority of the respondents (89%). Cosmetics or makeup were used by (42.3%) of the respondents to conceal acne and scars. Late onset of acne treatment was reported in (42%) of the cases. Most respondents (72.5%) visited doctors to treat acne. The mean Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) score was 4.55, which reflects mild effects of acne on the quality of life of most of the respondents. The adverse psychological impact was found to be significantly associated with increased acne severity, scarring, and hyperpigmentation as well as with university educated respondents. <i>Conclusion: </i>It was found that acne has mild effects on the quality of life of Sudanese women. Late onset of acne treatment resulted in widespread scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in most participants, which was associated with the psychological impact of acne. There is an urgent need to encourage early treatment of acne to reduce the physical sequalae of acne to reduce the psychosocial consequences associated with the disease and the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation on Sudanese women. Sudanese health authorities and Sudanese doctors can address this issue through education and awareness programs.

Analysis of intracellular communication reveals consistent gene changes associated with early-stage acne skin

A comprehensive understanding of the intricate cellular and molecular changes governing the complex interactions between cells within acne lesions is currently lacking. Herein, we analyzed early papules from six subjects with active acne vulgaris, utilizing single-cell and high-resolution spatial RNA sequencing. We observed significant changes in signaling pathways across seven different cell types when comparing lesional skin samples (LSS) to healthy skin samples (HSS). Using CellChat, we constructed an atlas of signaling pathways for the HSS, identifying key signal distributions and cell-specific genes within individual clusters. Further, our comparative analysis revealed changes in 49 signaling pathways across all cell clusters in the LSS— 4 exhibited decreased activity, whereas 45 were upregulated, suggesting that acne significantly alters cellular dynamics. We identified ten molecules, including GRN, IL-13RA1 and SDC1 that were consistently altered in all donors. Subsequently, we focused on the function of GRN and IL-13RA1 in TREM2 macrophages and keratinocytes as these cells participate in inflammation and hyperkeratinization in the early stages of acne development. We evaluated their function in TREM2 macrophages and the HaCaT cell line. We found that GRN increased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including IL-18, CCL5, and CXCL2 in TREM2 macrophages. Additionally, the activation of IL-13RA1 by IL-13 in HaCaT cells promoted the dysregulation of genes associated with hyperkeratinization, including KRT17, KRT16, and FLG. These findings suggest that modulating the GRN-SORT1 and IL-13-IL-13RA1 signaling pathways could be a promising approach for developing new acne treatments.

Analysis of Intracellular Communication Reveals Consistent Gene Changes Associated with Early-Stage Acne Skin.

A comprehensive understanding of the intricate cellular and molecular changes governing the complex interactions between cells within acne lesions is currently lacking. Herein, we analyzed early papules from six subjects with active acne vulgaris, utilizing single-cell and high-resolution spatial RNA sequencing. We observed significant changes in signaling pathways across seven different cell types when comparing lesional skin samples (LSS) to healthy skin samples (HSS). Using CellChat, we constructed an atlas of signaling pathways for the HSS, identifying key signal distributions and cell-specific genes within individual clusters. Further, our comparative analysis revealed changes in 49 signaling pathways across all cell clusters in the LSS- 4 exhibited decreased activity, whereas 45 were upregulated, suggesting that acne significantly alters cellular dynamics. We identified ten molecules, including GRN, IL-13RA1 and SDC1 that were consistently altered in all donors. Subsequently, we focused on the function of GRN and IL-13RA1 in TREM2 macrophages and keratinocytes as these cells participate in inflammation and hyperkeratinization in the early stages of acne development. We evaluated their function in TREM2 macrophages and the HaCaT cell line. We found that GRN increased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including IL-18, CCL5, and CXCL2 in TREM2 macrophages. Additionally, the activation of IL-13RA1 by IL-13 in HaCaT cells promoted the dysregulation of genes associated with hyperkeratinization, including KRT17, KRT16, and FLG. These findings suggest that modulating the GRN-SORT1 and IL-13-IL-13RA1 signaling pathways could be a promising approach for developing new acne treatments.

A review of the topical management of acne and its associated sequelae in the Asia-Pacific region with a spotlight on trifarotene.

Acne, a highly prevalent skin disease, can be particularly bothersome for patients of Asian background because of its impact on self-confidence and social interactions. In addition to active acne lesions, some patients may develop sequelae such as scarring, macular/postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, or erythema. The tendency of Asian skin to develop sequelae because of its increased susceptibility to irritation, cultural preferences for lighter skin phototypes, and differences in skincare regimens may all contribute to the increased burden of acne. Moreover, many Asia-Pacific countries do not have their own guidelines for acne management, and those that do often have no schedule in place for regular updates. In this article, we provide a critical review of the published guidance for the management of acne and its sequelae in the Asia-Pacific region, identifying gaps in current recommendations that could be addressed to enhance standards of acne care in Asia-Pacific countries. Along with highlighting the importance of a comprehensive skincare regimen to increase treatment efficacy and adherence, we discuss topical retinoids and retinoid combination options in the acne armamentarium that may be beneficial for sequelae prevention and management, such as adapalene 0.3% ± benzoyl peroxide 2.5%, tretinoin 0.05%, tazarotene 0.1%, and trifarotene 0.005%. In particular, trifarotene 0.005% has been observed to significantly reduce acne scar counts in a Phase 4 study. The recent data highlight the need to establish up-to-date guidance for acne and acne sequelae management in Asia-Pacific countries to provide optimal care to Asian patients.

40725 Fractional CO2 laser for active acne treatment: A Case Series

40725 Fractional CO2 laser for active acne treatment: A Case Series

Study on Acne Scarring and Its Relationship between Severity and Treatment of Active Acne: An Observational Study

Background: Incorrectly selected treatment or the presence of severe acne vulgaris can lead to the formation of atrophic scars. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the acne scarring and its relationship between severity and treatment of active acne. Methodology: This was cross-sectional observation study was performed in the EW VM Health Bangladesh Ltd., Dhaka for a period of 6 months. Evaluation of the types, sites, and severity of acne scars was done, and details of the severity and treatment of acne were recorded. Patients of all age-groups presenting for treatment of acne scars were included in the study. Results: This study shows maximum (40%) were age group 31-40 years. Face was involved in all the patients with acne vulgaris, which included the cheeks (91%), forehead (43%), jaw (51%), chin (27.0%), and nose (16.0%). The most common type of lesion predominantly observed was comedones (54.0%) followed by papules (53.0%), pustules (43.0%), nodules (29.0%), and cysts (3.0%). It was observed that 21.0% were mild acne, 27.0% were moderate acne and 52.0% severe acne. In grading system of acne scaring, 19.0% were macular acne scar, 14.0% were mild acne scar, 28.0% were moderate acne scar and 39.0% were severe acne scar. Conclusion: This study found majority of patients with active acne delay treatment, which leads to increased acne scarring. Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research, July 2022;9(2):69-73

Microneedling for Medical and Aesthetic Purposes: Current Indications and New Advances

Microneedling has become a valuable tool in dermatology, offering a non-surgical option to treat various skin conditions. The procedure creates microchannels in the skin, triggering the release of growth factors and promoting non-fibrotic skin remodeling. The current utilities for microneedling include treating wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, pigmentation disorders, warts, skin texture issues, rosacea, and hair regrowth. Multiple studies have shown its efficacy in improving these conditions, with significant improvements in patient assessments. However, further research is needed to optimize protocols and determine the ideal needle size, frequency, and interval between treatments for the best clinical outcomes for subjects. Through their novel research, clinicians have made significant advancements in microneedling, expanding its uses, and revolutionizing its application. Despite previous beliefs, microneedling can effectively treat active acne lesions without exacerbating the condition. It has also shown promise in treating facial spider veins, providing comparable efficacy to other methods with a better safety profile. Initiating microneedling treatment at an earlier stage for surgical scars improves outcomes compared to waiting for scar maturation. Microneedling combined with topical agents has shown positive results in treating gingival hyperpigmentation. Its expanding applications and recent advancements highlight the potential benefits of integrating microneedling into clinical practice.

PD11 Photodynamic therapy for treating acne vulgaris

Abstract In recent years, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been advised as a possible adjunct to conventional therapy for acne vulgaris (acne). Both the 2021 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence acne guidelines and the 2018 British Association of Dermatologists’ PDT guidelines include PDT as an option to consider for acne in those aged 18 and older and if other treatments are ineffective, not tolerated or contraindicated. There is, at present, insufficient evidence to suggest an exact dosage or treatment protocol. Herein, we present a case of successful use of PDT in a patient with difficult-to-manage acne and the protocol employed. A 21-year-old woman has been attending dermatology for 10 years for acne, with keloid scarring, which is most extensive on her back. She was previously treated with spironolactone and a combined oral contraceptive pill. Topical retinoids and antibiotics, including trimethoprim (to which she developed erythema multiforme), clindamycin, azithromycin and tetracyclines, had all been used for various periods without sustained successful clearance. The patient has a general anxiety disorder with low mood and is taking quetiapine. She is a social media advocate for people with mental health issues and has good insight into her mood. She is educated regarding isotretinoin and contraindications to its use. The patient was treated with a trial of two sessions of PDT 1 week apart. The target area was prepared 3 h in advance of light with methyl aminolaevulinate 16% (as hydrochloride) spread to a thickness of 1–5 mm beyond the area border. Red light (635 nm) with a total dose of 37 J cm−2 was provided for 7 min and 50 s each time. The patient has Fitzpatrick skin type I and experienced moderate postprocedural erythema, which later resolved. At both the 3- and 6-month clinical follow-up, the patient is effectively clear of active acne in the treated area. There is previous residual scarring. The patient is not using any topical or systemic acne treatments. Options for acne treatment are diverse. However, some patients experience ineffective clearance or tolerance, and are not good candidates for isotretinoin. Dermatology centres with PDT may help provide an alternative solution. This case illustrates the successful application of PDT for acne and adds to the body of literature to support its inclusion in the aforementioned guidelines.

Novel 1726 nm laser demonstrates durable therapeutic outcomes and tolerability for moderate-to-severe acne across skin types

Traditional acne management with topical therapy, systemic antibiotics, hormonal agents, or oral isotretinoin requires compliance and may produce significant side effects. However, alternative treatments with lasers had failed to demonstrate durable clearance. To assess the tolerability and therapeutic outcomes of a novel 1726-nm laser treatment of moderate-to-severe acne across skin types. A prospective, open-label, single-arm, IDE-approved, IRB-approved study of 104 subjects with moderate-to-severe facial acne and Fitzpatrick Skin Types ranging from II-to-VI was conducted. Subjects received three laser treatments at 3(-1/+2)-week intervals. Following final treatment, ≥50% reduction in active acne inflammatory lesions was 32.6% at 4-weeks follow-up, increasing further to 79.8% and 87.3% at 12 and 26-weeks, respectively. The percentage of subjects clear or almost clear increased from 0% at baseline to 9%, 36.0%, and 41.8% at 4-, 12- and 26-weeks follow-up. No serious adverse events were observed related to device or protocol; treatments were well tolerated, requiring no anesthetic. Therapeutic outcomes and discomfort were similar across all skin types. Lack of control group. The study findings demonstrate the novel 1726 nm laser is well tolerated with durable progressive post-treatment improvement to at least 26 weeks for moderate-to-severe acne across skin types.

ROLE OF GLYCOLIC ACID PEELING (35%) IN MANAGEMENT OF ACNE VULGARIS: A PROSPECTIVE COMPARATIVE STUDY

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a common dermatological disorder primarily affecting adolescents and young adults. In spite of various modalities of treatment available, it still poses a therapeutic problem to the dermatologists. The advent of new and potent topical therapeutic modalities such as chemical peeling has resulted in signicant improvement in the treatment of acne. This study aims to observe the therapeutic res Objective: ponse of 35% glycolic acid peeling in active acne lesions as an adjuvant to conventional anti acne therapy. This Materials & Methods: was randomized control study in which 100 patients of mild – moderate grade acne vulgaris were taken and divided into 2 groups of 50 each. Group A was given conventional anti acne management and group B was given Glycolic acid peeling every 3 weeks in addition to the conventional anti acne management. Follow up was done for 4 months and results were compared between the 2 groups. we found that acne grade improved faster in Group B patients (patients undergoi Result & Conclusion: ng GLA peel). Although Group B patients showed faster improvement in clearance of acne lesions but by the end of the study i.e., at 15 weeks both the group had equal response rate. This means that glycolic acid peeling can be used as an adjuvant with conventional antiacne management to fasten the resolution of acne lesions but nal response after full course of treatment is similar in both group

Evaluation of Serum Level of Cathepsin S in Patients with Active Acne Vulgaris

Evaluation of Serum Level of Cathepsin S in Patients with Active Acne Vulgaris

Beyond the Surface: A Deeper Look at the Psychosocial Impacts of Acne Scarring.

Post-acne scarring is a common consequence of acne vulgaris with no universal cure. Although there have been many recent advances to address acne scars physically, there is still a lack of research that investigates their psychosocial impacts. Our comprehensive PubMed search presents an overview of existing information to highlight known sources of mental distress caused by post-acne scarring, both related to and independent of the psychosocial detriments caused early on by active acne. The literature indicates that acne scarring is a distinct condition from acne vulgaris and therefore requires a comprehensive clinical approach unique from those available for active acne.

Acne scars topical treatment: Endolift® direct optical energy using 1470-nm wavelength Eufoton® LASEmaR® 1500

The present work was designed to evaluate the efficiency of the procedure Endolift® studied to reduce skin depression and scars. Thirty patients with acne scars, mostly deep rolling, of both sex ranging from 19 to 32 year-of-age, were treated; 30% of them presented active acne. The Endolift® laser treatment is based on wavelength 1470-nm of the device Eufoton® LASEmaR® 1500 and LIGHTSCAN™ - a fractional, non-ablative laser treatment. Only one session of 300-mm diameter laser fibre inserted under the skin was performed; 70% of enrolled patients were without anaesthesia, and 30% were treated with air-cooling systems or block anaesthesia. Sixty-five% of the patients reported immediate smoothing of the scars with only one application; for the 35%, we used 2 to 3 treatments based on LIGHTSCAN™ to keep acne under control. Twenty patients with rolling scars needed only one session of treatment to reach optimal results; 10 patients with other types of acne scars reported moderate to medium improvement and needed a second treatment. Although day-by-day improvement was visible, the final result was obtained after 12 months. The treatment had permanent results, and there were no downtimes or side effects. Laser sub-incision is a game changer for acne scar treatments, especially deep rolling scars.

Serum survivin in acne versus post-acne scarring and the possible effect of isotretinoin therapy on its level

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit. Survivin is an apoptosis inhibitor protein, and it contributes crucially to cell cycle regulation. This study measures the serum level of survivin in acne and post-acne scarring patients, and assesses the possible effect of isotretinoin therapy on its level. Sixty participants, including 40 acne patients (Group IA, IB), and 20 age- and sex-matched controls (Group II) were included. Group IA included 20 patients with active moderate-to-severe acne without scarring, and this group was further prescribed oral isotretinoin therapy for 3 months. Group IB included 20 patients with post-acne scarring of a duration not more than 6 months, without evident active acne lesions. Serum survivin levels were measured in the three groups using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. There was a statistically significant higher serum survivin level in the acne scar group, followed by the active acne group, than in controls. In addition, there was a statistically significant reduction in survivin levels after treatment, and it was positively correlated with a reduction in the global acne grading system (GAGS) in the active acne group. Survivin may play a role in the evolution of acne and acne scarring, and it could be a possible target for isotretinoin therapy.

Insurance Coverage of Dermabrasion and Chemical Peel Procedures: A Critical Analysis of 58 American Insurance Companies.

Introduction Dermabrasion and chemical peels are infrequently utilized methods of treatment for medical-grade conditions despite demonstrations of favorable outcomes. Insurance coverage status has previously been shown to impact availability and accessibility to specific treatments. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the rate of insurance coverage provided for dermabrasionand chemical peel procedures in the treatment of acne, acne scarring,and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC). Methods A cross-sectional analysis of 58 insurance companies by web-basedsearch or phone interview determined the number of insurers with a publicly available policy on dermabrasion or chemical peels. Coverage status and any corresponding criteria were extracted from existing company policies. Results Thirteen (22%) and 22 (38%) policies discussed dermabrasion in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis, with 62% and 73% of these policies providing coverage. Acne scarring was discussedin significantly more dermabrasion policies than basal cell carcinoma (45% vs 22%; p=0.018). However, significantly more insurers denied coverage of dermabrasion for active acne and acne scarring when compared to dermabrasionto treat basal cell carcinoma or actinic keratosis (p<0.001).Eighty-seven percent of companies (n=20) with a chemical peel policy for premalignant lesions would providecoverage, with required criteria present in 95% (n=19) of thepolicies that would coverchemical peels for actinic keratosis specifically. Of the 25 companies (43%) that discussed the treatment of acne with chemical peel procedures, 14 (56%) provided coverage, and 11 (44%) denied coverage. Coveragewas denied by significantly less insurersfor the treatment of active acne with chemical peel procedures compared to treatment with dermabrasion(44% vs 83%; p<0.006). Conclusion Significant discrepancies were noted in both the presence of a publicpolicy and the coverage status of dermabrasion or chemical peel proceduresamong the United States health insurance companies. These inconsistencies, along with multiple criteria required for coverage, may create an artificial barrier to receiving care for specific medical-grade conditions.

Efficiency and safety of microneedling fractional radiofrequency in the treatment of Chinese atrophic acne scars: A retrospective study of 3 consecutive treatments with 1-month intervals.

Atrophic acne scars (AAS) impact the aesthetic appearance, inducing social and psychological problems. Effective and safe therapy for AAS is urgently needed now. Microneedling fractional radiofrequency (MFRF) has emerged as a minimal invasive alteration for treating AAS lately, while the existing data on Chinese population was few. We aimed to explore the effectivity and safety of MFRF in Chinese patients with facial AAS and analyze the response of different subtypes to MFRF treatment. We conducted a retrospective analysis using data from medical records and clinical photographs of 40 Chinese patients with AAS with Fitzpatrick skin type III-IV, all of them had received 3 MFRF treatments with 1-month intervals and were followed up 3months after the last treatment. The clinical severity was assessed through échelle d'évaluation clinique des cicatrices d'acné (ECCA) score at each visit. Clinical photographs were taken by VISIA. Patients were asked to evaluate their satisfaction of the treatment using a 5-point Likert scale at the last visit. ECCA score decreased more than a half at the last visit based on the baseline. Among the three types of AAS, the M-shaped scars respond most quickly to MFRF and the U-shaped scars improved the most after 3months follow-up. A significant improvement was seen in clinical appearance, parallel to the change of ECCA, indicating the remarkable improvement of AAS after the MFRF treatment. Concomitant active acne was controlled along with the improvement of AAS. Statistics from VISIA showed excellent improvement in pores and texture as well. Side effects including pain and erythema were transient and mild. The number of MFRF treatment sessions was positively associated with the degree of improvement. Of the total 39 patients who had given a score of satisfaction, more than 89% (35 patients) were very satisfied or satisfied with the outcome. To sum up, our study reveals that MFRF provides high efficiency in treating Chinese AAS patients with high satisfaction and low risk of adverse effects. M-shaped scars are the most sensitive type to the treatment, but the U-shaped scars improve most at the last visit. The simultaneous minimization of pores and improvement of skin texture imply the increased collagen stimulated by MFRF. Regular MFRF should be considered a good choice in treating AAS.

623 Microneedling with autologous platelet-rich plasma verses microneedling with topical insulin in the treatment of post-acne atrophic scars: a simultaneous split-face comparative study

Post-acne atrophic scars (PAS) are common sequelae of acne. Peels, platelet rich plasma (PRP), subcision, dermabrasion, lasers etc. are useful in PAS; however, many of them are associated with major adverse effects (AE). We conducted a split-face comparative study of microneedling with PRP (Left side) and microneedling with topical insulin (TI) (Right side) for PAS. Sixteen patients of PAS were enrolled after taking written consent. Exclusion criteria included presence of active acne and/or infections over face, pregnancy or lactation, on isotretinoin, and history of keloidal tendency, bleeding disorders and deranged blood sugar levels.

Projective Personification Approach to the Experience of People With Acne and Acne Scarring—Expressing the Unspoken

The association of acne with emotional and social well-being is not limited to active acne because acne scarring can extend long after cessation of active lesions. To explore the psychosocial burden of facial and truncal acne (FTA) and acne scars (AS) in a spontaneous manner using qualitative research. This qualitative study recruited participants via local panels. A personification exercise, "Letter to my Disease," was developed for participants of 2 independent arms, FTA and AS, of an international qualitative study in the form of letter completion. Study outcomes comprised perceptions, psychosocial effects of FTA and AS, and coping behaviors. A total of 60 participants were recruited for the FTA and AS study. Among participants with FTA, 17 were women (57%), 21 (70%) were aged 13 to 25 years, and 9 (30%) were aged 26 to 40 years. Twenty-six (87%) participants had severe active acne and 4 (13%) had moderate active acne. Among participants with AS, 18 were women (60%), 9 (30%) were aged 18 to 24 years, and 21 (70%) were aged between 25 and 45 years. Of these 60 participants, 56 (FTA, 28 and AS, 28) completed the projective exercise, "Letter to my Disease," the analysis of which is presented in the current study. During completion of the letter exercise, participants spontaneously expressed emotional and physical burden as well as the social stigma associated with their skin condition. Three major themes emerged, namely, (1) burden of the condition, (2) attitudes and beliefs, and (3) relationship to the personified condition. Consistent with their skin condition, participants associated acne, through personification, with the character of an intruder and unwanted companion responsible for their poor self-esteem and emotional impairment. The findings of the joint analyses of letters (FTA and AS), as a catalytic process and free-expression space, outline the continuous burden of active acne starting from adolescence and then continuing into adulthood and beyond active lesions with AS, and highlight the struggle for self-acceptance.

Clinical assessment on the efficacy of a combined treatment targeting subjects with acne-prone skin

Background: Acne is a multifactorial inflammatory skin disease affecting the quality of life of acne prone subjects. Several therapeutic approaches are currently used to counteract this condition, mostly having side effects. As acne development has been recently linked to skin and gut dysbiosis, acting on both aspects could represent an alternative and promising approach to ameliorate the acne clinical signs. Material and Methods: A cosmetic product, containing Ectoin, and a food supplement, containing probiotics, were formulated as a combined treatment to target both gut and skin microbiota and evaluated for the improvement of skin appearance on acne prone adult subjects. Eighty male and female subjects, showing acne clinical signs, were assigned to 4 groups to receive the following products: the cosmetic product containing Ectoin + a placebo food supplement, the combined treatment, a cosmetic reference product, specifically formulated for counteracting acne, + a placebo food supplement, the cosmetic reference product + the food supplement with probiotics. Acne lesions, skin sebum content, pH and moisturization were monitored. Results: Clinical evaluations of active acne lesions and comedones, skin complexion evenness and skin inflammatory status were carried out. The combined treatment resulted as effective as the cosmetic reference product in ameliorating the instrumental parameters, and more effective in the dermatological assessment of skin complexion evenness and inflammatory status. Conclusion: The combined treatment proposed, formulated to target both gut and skin microbiota, resulted effective in ameliorating acne clinical signs and could represent a valid alternative to conventional acne management.

Salicylic Acid Versus Glycolic Acid Peel in Active Acne

Objective: To compare the efficacies of Salicylic acid and Glycolic acid peel in patients with active acne.&#x0D; Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.&#x0D; Setting and Duration of Study: Department of dermatology, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, (PEMH) Rawalpindi Pakistan, Dec 2018 to Jan 2020.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of 300 patients with active acne were included in this study. Patients were randomized into groups by lottery method. Group-A was given 30% Salicylic acid, while Group-B was given 70% Glycolic acid to control active acne. A grading system developed by Hayashi et al, was used to assess the response. A score less than six after 12 weeks was considered a positive response. In addition, the type of treatment and other factors were compared in the patients with and without a positive response after the designated treatment.&#x0D; Results: Out of 300 patients with active acne included in the study, 172 (57.3%) had a positive response, while 128 (42.7%) had not achieved a positive response after the twelve-week treatment. Use of 30% Salicylic acid, lesser duration of acne and more minor age of the patients had a statistically significant relationship with a positive response in the study population (p-value 0.010, 0.005 and 0.001, respectively).&#x0D; Conclusion: A significant number of patients did not respond to standard therapy of acne vulgaris. However, chances of achieving a positive response increase with 30% Salicylic acid instead of 70% Glycolic acid, lesser duration of acnes and young patients have more chances of getting a positive response at the end of the therapy.