Acne Research Articles

Factors that Influence The Onset of Acne Vulgaris :Retrospective Study

Background: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a skin condition that mostly occurs in adolescents, although it can occur at any age. Most occur during adolescence, with a prevalence of around 85%. Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial disease triggered by many factors, namely, genetics, environment, hormonal and emotional stress, food, trauma, cosmetics, and medications. Purpose: This study identifies the precipitating factors of acne vulgaris. Methods: This study was retrospective based on medical record data at the Dermatology and Venereology Outpatient Clinic of Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital Surabaya in the period January 2018–December 2019. Results: The number of AV patients within 2 years from January 2018 to December 2019 obtained 517 cases of acne vulgaris patients with complete data. There were female AV patients (80.7%) and male AV patients (19.3%). The most common age of AV patients was 15–24 years old (60.5%), the most common occupation of AV patients was student (59.8%), and patients suffered from AV for >12 months (18.6%). The most precipitating factors for AV are hormonal (69.6%) and cosmetic (50.1%); the most common type of AV is mild AV (64.2%); and the most common AV therapy is the combination of topical tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide (BPO), and topical clindamycin. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that hormonal and cosmetic precipitating factors caused most AV patients in women.

Bioadhesive Polymeric Films Containing Rhamnolipids, An Innovative Antimicrobial Topical Formulation.

Acne affects most of the world's population, causing an impact on the self-esteem of adolescents and young adults. One of the causes is the presence of the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes which are part of the natural microbiota of the skin. Topical treatments consist of anti-inflammatory and antibiotics, which could select resistant strains. Alternatives to the antibiotic are biocomposites that have antimicrobial activity like biosurfactants which are produced by bacteria. An innovative way of applying these compounds is bioadhesive polymeric films that adhere to the skin and release the active principle topically. Rhamnolipids have great potential to be used in the treatment of acne because they present antimicrobial activity against C. acnes in low and safe concentrations (MIC of 15.62µg/mL, CBM of 31.25µg/mL and CC50 of 181.93µg/mL). Four films with different rhamnolipids concentrations (0.0; 0.1; 0.2; and 0.3%, w/w) were obtained as to visual appearance, mass variation, thickness, density, solubility, pH, water vapor transmission, mechanical properties (folding endurance, bioadhesion strength, tensile strength, elongation at break and Young's modulus), scanning electron microscopy and infrared. The results show that these formulations had a homogeneous appearance; elastic mechanical properties; pH similar to human skin and bioadhesive. The polymeric films containing rhamnolipids were effective against C. acnes, in the in vitro test, at the three concentrations tested, the film with the highest concentration (0.3%, w/w) being the most promising for presenting the highest antimicrobial activity. Thus, the polymeric film containing rhamnolipids has the potential to be used in the treatment of acne.

The contemporary issues related to conventional treatment of acne and the way forward

Background: People perceive acne as a minority disorder (not a major health concern), but it has a significant impact and burden on the victims. Although conventional drugs are available for its treatment, which are applied directly to the affected skin, such as azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid etc. or formulationAcne vulgaris is a common skin condition that can have a significant impact on individuals, yet conventional treatments often come with various contemporary issues. This paper discusses the contemporary issues related to the conventional treatment of acne and explores a way forward. Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit, with a high prevalence globally and in Nigeria. Although conventional drugs are available for treatment, there are several contemporary issues related to their usage that need to be addressed. Method: Relevant literature, including stakeholder reports and studies conducted globally and locally, were searched and reviewed to identify the contemporary issues related to conventional acne treatment. The key contemporary issues identified include economic, environmental, emotional, social, and spiritual concerns. Findings: The economic burden of costly conventional medications makes them inaccessible for many. Environmental issues arise from the use of potentially harmful chemicals that can pollute water sources and contribute to climate change. Acne can also lead to emotional distress, social stigma, and spiritual conflicts, especially due to the side effects of conventional treatments. Given the limitations of conventional treatments, the article recommends the use of scientifically-proven herbal remedies as a promising alternative strategy. Herbs such as tea tree oil, green tea, chasteberry, black seed, and spikeweed have demonstrated antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-androgenic properties that can effectively manage acne without the adverse effects of conventional drugs. Conclusion: The use of evidence-based herbal medicines offers a way forward in the treatment of acne, addressing the contemporary issues associated with conventional approaches. Further clinical research and regulatory approval are necessary to integrate these herbal remedies into conventional acne management and ensure their widespread and safe use. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study proposes an integrated acne treatment framework that combines conventional therapies with evidence-based herbal medicine. This approach addresses contemporary issues in acne treatment by considering economic, environmental, and socio-cultural aspects.

VB_CacS-HV1 as a Novel Pahexavirus Bacteriophage with Lytic and Anti-Biofilm Potential against Cutibacterium acnes.

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease, most common in adolescence and often persisting into adulthood, leading to severe physical and psychological impacts. The primary etiological factor is Cutibacterium acnes infection. The overuse of antibiotics for acne treatment over recent decades has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant Cutibacterium acnes strains. In this study, we isolated and characterized a novel bacteriophage, vB_CacS-HV1, from saliva samples. The average nucleotide identity analysis indicated that vB_CacS-HV1 is a new species within the Pahexavirus genus, enhancing our understanding of this underexplored group. vB_CacS-HV1 demonstrates favorable stability, lacks potentially harmful genetic elements (virulence factors, antibiotic resistance genes, transposons, and integrases), and exhibits potent lytic and anti-biofilm activities against Cutibacterium acnes at low concentrations. These advantages highlight vB_CacS-HV1's potential as a promising antibacterial agent that could possibly be complementary to antibiotics or other treatments for acne therapy.

Microneedling with Topical Insulin Versus Microneedling with Non-Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid for Atrophic Post-Acne Scars: A Split-Face Study.

Post-acne scars are a prevalent cosmetic complaint that usually require multi-modality treatment to achieve accepted results. The target of this research was to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of microneedling with topical insulin versus microneedling with non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid in atrophic post-acne scar treatment. The current comparative split-face research included 30 patients with atrophic facial acne scars. Each patient received six sessions of microneedling with topical insulin on one side of the face and microneedling with non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid on the other side. Sessions were done three weeks apart, and digital photographs were taken before and three months after the last treatment session. Goodman and Baron qualitative and quantitative grading system was used to evaluate the improvement across both sides of the face, along with patient satisfaction. Three months after the last session, a statistically significant improvement in qualitative acne scar grading on both sides of the face (P < 0.001) was reported, with non-significant difference between the two sides (P = 0.864). Moreover, the mean percentage of improvement in quantitative acne scar grading was 49.18 ± 13.22 on the insulin side and 47.72 ± 15.08 on the hyaluronic acid side, with non-significant difference between the two sides after treatment (P = 0.235). Both microneedling with topical insulin and with non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid achieved comparable significant improvement of atrophic post-acne scars.

Evaluation of Ultrasound Changes With the Use of Microneedling Versus Fractional CO2 Laser in Atrophic Acne Scars.

Atrophic acne scarring, a common sequela of acne, can be treated by different interventions, including microneedling and laser resurfacing. We sought to evaluate the comparative efficacy of microneedling versus fractional CO2 laser in treating atrophic acne facial scars using imaging with high and ultra-high frequency ultrasound. Participants received 2 sessions, separated by 1 month, of microneedling on the left side of the face and fractional CO2 laser on the right. Color Doppler ultrasound evaluations (24 and 70 MHz) were conducted at baseline and 3 months after treatment. Each patient completed questionnaires on satisfaction, pain, and adverse effects. Nine subjects were enrolled. The frequency order of scar types was boxcar, ice-pick, and rolling. At 3 months, using the acne scar clinical evaluation scale, a decrease in scar scores of both methods was observed for total scars (P = 0.0005), ice-pick scars (P = 0.0128), and rolling scars (P = 0.0007). Twenty-two scars analyzed by ultrasound demonstrated a trend to decrease in size; however, no significant changes were observed for either microneedling or CO2 laser treatments. Moreover, there were no significant differences between these methods. Both treatments were rated as good or very good by patient assessments. There was a low frequency of pain and hyperpigmentation reported with both modalities, albeit somewhat higher with microneedling. Both microneedling and CO2 laser improved atrophic acne scars. Ultrasound did not show significant differences between these modalities.

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF BACANG MANGO (Mangifera foetida L.) LEAVES ETHANOL EXTRACT IN GEL FORMULATION AS ANTI-ACNE

Acne was a chronic skin disorder that was most often found in adolescents, so it frequently caused psychological effects that made the acne fighters look for ways to treat it quickly. Although topical antibiotics effectively treat acne, excessive long-term use can cause resistance. This has led to an interest in natural antimicrobials as an alternative treatment for acne. The natural antibacterial activity of the ethanol extract of bacang mango (Mangifera foetida L.) leaves has previously been reported to have antibacterial effects against Propionibacterium acnes, but only in the form of extracts not formulated into pharmaceutical preparations. Therefore, this study aimed to re-test the antibacterial activity of this extract, which has now been formulated into a gel preparation against the same bacteria. The gelling agent used in the gel formulation was Na-CMC with three different concentrations: 3%, 4%, and 5%. The Agar stab technique tests the antibacterial activity for three different extract concentrations. Those were 10%, 15%, and 20% for optimization of inhibitory activity before being formulated. Based on the results of testing the antibacterial activity of the ethanol extract of bacang mango (Mangifera foetida L.) leaves, an extract concentration of 20% had a more potent inhibitory activity than the others so that this concentration was chosen to be formulated into a gel preparation. After the formulation of the extracted gel, Na-CMC with a concentration of 5% produced a better gel base than other formulations. In addition, the three formulations provided the same inhibitory activity of 10 mm, so it can be concluded that the differences in gelling agent concentrations did not affect the antibacterial activity of the extracts in the preparations. However, a 3 mm decrease in inhibition occurred in the extract after it was formulated into a gel preparation. Even so, the extract gel preparation still has antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes with antimicrobial inhibition zone activity, which is in the moderate category.

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae: A Multicenter Retrospective Study of 142 Hispanic Patients.

Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a primary cicatricial alopecia with mixed infiltrate. It is more common in Africans or persons of African descent. Our objective was to describe the epidemiology and clinical and trichoscopic presentations of AKN in a large series of Hispanic patients. This was a retrospective study from 10 different dermatological centers in Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru. Patients with a clinical diagnosis of AKN treated by 12 dermatologists experienced in trichology from 2018 to 2022 were included. The Umar classification system was used to determine severity. We identified 142 patients with AKN: 98% were male (n=140) with a mean age of 32 years; 108 patients had a previous history of trauma to the nuchal area (76%, P < 0.001); and 48 were positive for a history of acne (33.8%, P = 0.021). Patients with >50 months of evolution were mainly classified in classes III and IV compared to patients with an evolution of <50 months (30%, n=9 vs. 14%, n=15; P = 0.019; respectively). AKN should be considered in the differential diagnosis in the Hispanic population. Advanced stages of the disease are correlated with chronic evolution.

The Relationship Between Diet and Body Mass Index with Events of Acne Vulgaris among Medical Students

The Relationship Between Diet and Body Mass Index with Events of Acne Vulgaris among Medical Students

Autolougous platelet concentrates in esthetic medicine.

This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the use of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) in esthetic medicine, with the goal of providing clinicians with reliable information for clinical practice. APCs contain platelets that release various growth factors with potential applications in facial and dermatologic treatments. This review examines several facial esthetic applications of APCs, including acne scarring, skin rejuvenation, melasma, vitiligo, stretchmarks, peri-orbital rejuvenation, peri-oral rejuvenation, hair regeneration and the volumizing effects of APC gels. A systematic review of literature databases (PubMed/MEDLINE) was conducted up to October 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the English language on APCs for facial rejuvenation and dermatology. A total of 96 articles were selected including those on platelet rich plasma (PRP), plasma-rich in growth factors (PRGF), and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). Clinical recommendations gained from the reviews are provided. In summary, the use of APCs in facial esthetics is a promising yet relatively recent treatment approach. Overall, the majority of studies have focused on the use of PRP with positive outcomes. Only few studies have compared PRP versus PRF with all demonstrating superior outcomes using PRF. The existing studies have limitations including small sample sizes and lack of standardized assessment criteria. Future research should utilize well-designed RCTs, incorporating appropriate controls, such as split-face comparisons, and standardized protocols for APC usage, including optimal number of sessions, interval between sessions, and objective improvement scores. Nevertheless, the most recent formulations of platelet concentrates offer clinicians an ability to improve various clinical parameters and esthetic concerns.

In vitro and In vivo Activity of a New N-Oxide Derivative for Acne Vulgaris Treatment.

Furoxan and benzofuroxan are compounds containing an N-oxide function, known for their diverse pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial and antiinflammatory effects. This study aimed to investigate these activities using an in-house library of N-oxide compounds. Twenty compounds were tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a microorganism implicated in the development of acne vulgaris. One compound, (E)-4-(3-((2-(3-hydroxybenzoyl)hydrazone)methyl)phenoxy)-3- (phenylsulfonyl)-1,2,5-oxadiazol-2-N-oxide (compound 15), exhibited selective antimicrobial activity against C. acnes, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of 2 μg/mL. Indirect measurement of Nitric Oxide (NO) release showed that compound 15 and isosorbide dinitrate, when treated with L-cysteine, produced nitrite levels of 20.1% and 9.95%, respectively. Using a NO scavenger (PTIO) in combination with compound 15 in a culture of C. acnes resulted in reduced antimicrobial activity, indicating that NO release is part of its mechanism of action. Cytotoxicity assessments using murine macrophages showed cellular viability above 70% at concentrations up to 0.78 μg/mL. Measurements of Interleukin-1 beta (IL1-β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) indicated that compound 15 did not reduce the levels of these pro-inflammatory cytokines. Sustained NO production by inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) in macrophages or neutrophils has been found to be involved in the inflammatory process in acne vulgaris and lead to toxicity in surrounding tissues. Nitrite levels in the supernatant of murine macrophages were found to be decreased at a concentration of 0.78 μg/mL of compound 15, indicating an anti-inflammatory effect. In vivo studies were conducted using Balb/c nude mice inoculated subcutaneously with C. acnes. Cream and gel formulations of compound 15 were applied to treat the animals, along with commercially available anti-acne drugs, for 14 days. Animals treated with a cream base containing 5% of compound 15 exhibited less acanthosis with mild inflammatory infiltration compared to other groups, highlighting its anti-inflammatory properties. Similar results were observed in the benzoyl peroxide group, demonstrating that compound 15 presented comparable anti-inflammatory activity to the FDA-approved drug. These promising results suggest that compound 15 has a dual mechanism of action, with selective antimicrobial activity against C. acnes and notable anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential prototype for developing new treatments for acne vulgaris.

Role of Trifarotene in the Management of Acne in Indian Patients: Insights From an Indian Dermatology Experts' Meeting.

Acne vulgaris, a prevalent inflammatory skin condition, significantly impacts individuals worldwide, particularly adolescents and adults. Its chronic nature, associated sequelae, and psychosocial impact underscore the substantial burden it poses. Current treatment guidelines primarily address facial acne, with limited guidance on managing truncal acne. Personalized approaches are increasingly recognized as essential for tailoring treatments to individual patient needs. This review integrates insights from an Indian Dermatology Experts' Meeting, featuring perspectives from nine leading dermatologists. Discussions centered on analyzing acne's burden, its effects on quality of life (QoL), unmet needs in management, trifarotene's role in Indian therapy, anticipated challenges, and the importance of ancillary care. The experts highlighted acne's profound impact on patients' QoL and identified gaps in current management guidelines, especially concerning truncal acne. Trifarotene, a fourth-generation topical retinoid approved by the FDA and Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for facial and truncal acne, demonstrated safety and efficacy across age groups. This synthesis of expert perspectives underscores the need for personalized acne management. Trifarotene emerges as a promising therapeutic option but challenges remain, particularly in optimizing ancillary care to minimize treatment-related adverse effects. Addressing these issues will enhance treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction in acne management, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches in clinical practice.

Applications of Plasma‐Rich Plasma, Exosomes, and Stem Cells in Aesthetics: A Narrative Review

ABSTRACTIntroductionPlasma‐rich plasma (PRP), exosomes, and stem cells represent promising new treatments for facial rejuvenation and to enhance other cosmetic procedures. Although these treatments are rapidly advancing, there are no universally accepted treatment protocols for their use. The goal of the following review is to describe some of the possible benefits of PRP, exosomes, and stem cells in aesthetic medicine.ResultsA review of available studies showed that potential uses of PRP include wound healing after facial surgery, facial rejuvenation, androgenetic alopecia, acne scars, striae distensae, and vitiligo. Exosomes may provide beneficial treatment for skin rejuvenation, scar reduction, hyperpigmentation, and hair growth. Stem cells show promise for androgenetic alopecia, scar improvement, and treatment of photoaged skin. These new technologies may be used alone, but are often combined with existing aesthetic treatments.ConclusionPRP, exosomes, and stem cells may play an important role in restoring youthful tissue structure and function. Interpretation of some study results is sometimes challenged by the lack of standardized treatment protocols, including routes of application and dosing. When combined with other devices and techniques, results are sometime unclear as to which treatment plays the greater role.

Factors associated with pityriasis versicolor in a large national database.

Pityriasis versicolor (PV), a cutaneous fungal infection, most commonly affects adolescents and young adults and is associated with hyperhidrosis and humid weather. Understanding other factors associated with PV might help improve diagnostic and treatment practices. PV's associations with patient demographics, comorbidities and medication exposures were assessed using the All of Us Database, a large, diverse, national database from the United States. A case-control study with multivariable analysis was performed. We identified 456 PV case-patients and 1368 control-patients. PV case-patients (vs. control-patients) were younger (median age [years] (standard deviation): 48.7 (15.4) vs. 61.9 (15.5); OR: 0.95, CI: 0.94-0.96) and more likely to be men versus women (42.8% vs. 33.9%, OR: 1.45, CI: 1.16-1.79) and Black (19.5% vs. 15.8%, OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.02-1.80) or Asian (4.6% vs. 2.7%, OR: 1.86, CI: 1.07-3.24) versus White. PV case-patients more frequently had acne (5.3% vs. ≤1.5%, OR: 5.37, CI: 2.76-10.48) and less frequently had type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (14.7% vs. 24.7%, OR: 0.52, CI: 0.39-0.70) and hypothyroidism (OR: 10.3% vs. 16.4%, OR: 0.59, CI: 0.42-0.82). In multivariable analysis, PV odds were significantly higher in those with acne and lower in those with T2DM, older age and female sex. Our results may be used as a basis for future studies evaluating whether acne treatment may decrease PV risk. Physicians could educate patients with acne about PV, including strategies to control modifiable PV risk factors, such as avoidance of hot and humid environments and avoidance of use of topical skin oils.

Study of different pre-treatments in the comparison of the efficacy of photodynamic therapy for moderate to severe acne vulgaris

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of CO2 fractional laser and microneedling pretreatment combined with ALA-PDT for moderate-to-severe acne, aiming to optimize clinical treatment. MethodsPatients were randomly divided into three groups: Group A (CO2 fractional laser + ALA-PDT), Group B (microneedling + ALA-PDT), and Group C (ALA-PDT). Each group underwent photodynamic therapy once a week for 3 weeks. Efficacy was assessed at the end of the 4th week, and recurrence was assessed at the end of the 12th week. ResultsA total of 150 patients with moderate to severe acne were included in this study, with 50 patients in each group. Four weeks after the end of treatment, the effective rates were 88 % for Group A, 62 % for Group B, and 36 % for Group C. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups (P < 0.05), with Group A showing superior efficacy compared to Group B (P < 0.05). No serious systemic or local adverse reactions were observed in any group. No recurrence was seen in any group 12 weeks after the end of treatment, and some patients continued to show improvement in skin lesions over time. ConclusionBoth the CO2 fractional laser group and the microneedling group improved the efficacy of photodynamic therapy for moderate to severe acne compared to the control group, with the CO2 fractional laser group demonstrating better efficacy and fewer adverse effects.

Challenges in designing a randomized, double-blind noninferiority trial for treatment of acne: The SD-ACNE trial.

Excessive use of antibiotics has led to development of antibiotic resistance and other antibiotic-associated complications. Dermatologists prescribe more antibiotics per clinician than any other major specialty, with much of this use for acne. Alternative acne treatments are available but are used much less often than antibiotics, at least partially because dermatologists feel that they are less effective. Spironolactone, a hormonal therapy with antiandrogen effects that can address the hormonal pathogenesis of acne, may represent a therapeutic alternative to oral antibiotics for women with acne. However, the comparative effects of spironolactone and oral antibiotics in the treatment of acne have not been definitively studied. The Spironolactone versus Doxycycline for Acne: A Comparative Effectiveness, Noninferiority Evaluation (SD-ACNE) trial aims to answer whether spironolactone, in addition to standard topical therapy, is noninferior to doxycycline (an oral antibiotic) for women with acne. Several interesting challenges arose in the development of this study, including determining acceptability of the comparative regimens to participating dermatologists, identifying data to support a noninferiority margin, and establishing a process for unblinding participants after they completed the study while maintaining the blind for study investigators. We present the scientific and clinical rationale for the decisions made in the design of the trial, including input from key stakeholders through a Delphi consensus process. The Spironolactone versus Doxycycline for Acne: A Comparative Effectiveness, Noninferiority Evaluation trial (NCT04582383) is being conducted at a range of community and academic sites in the United States. To maximize external validity and inform clinical practice, the study is designed with broad eligibility criteria and no prohibition of use of topical medications. Participants in the trial will be randomized to receive either spironolactone 100 mg/day or doxycycline hyclate 100 mg/day for 16 weeks. The primary outcome is the absolute decrease in inflammatory lesion count, and we have established a noninferiority margin of four inflammatory lesions. Secondary outcomes include the percentage of participants achieving Investigator Global Assessment success, change in quality of life, and microbiome changes and diversity. The Spironolactone versus Doxycycline for Acne: A Comparative Effectiveness, Noninferiority Evaluation trial will have substantial implications for the treatment of acne and antibiotic stewardship. In addition, this study will provide important information on the effect of these systemic agents on the development of changes to the microbiome and antibiotic resistance in a healthy population of patients.

Role of cosmetic camouflage in improving quality of life in dermatological disorders: A narrative review.

Camouflage is a system of techniques using cosmetics to conceal, diminish and disguise visible disfigurements of pigment or texture of skin mainly over visible areas. A wide variety of options are available which can be used as camouflage cosmetics. Over the years many authors have published studies highlighting the importance of camouflage in different dermatological disorders like pigmentary, vascular, scars, acne vulgaris and many more. In this review we present 15 such studies assessing QOL in patients of dermatological diseases who were given camouflage therapy. The evidence presented here gives us an insight into the positive effects of camouflage/cover up make up when offered to patients with different dermatological conditions.

Visible Light in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris.

Acne vulgaris, a prevalent dermatological disorder, frequently affects individuals' self-perception and general psychosocial functioning. The growing demand for home-based light therapy devices prompted a systematic review to assess the efficacy of visible light in acne treatment. Overall, 35 studies were included, representing 1185 cases of acne vulgaris (mean age: 23.7 years; sex: 63% female). A total of 69% of the included studies were level 2 evidence. Overall, 92% of patients achieved partial remission of their acne lesions using visible light therapy. Among the patients who experienced a partial remission of their acne, 46% experienced a reduction of 0% to 50% in their acne lesions, while 33% and 12% experienced reductions of 51% to 74% and 75% to 99%, respectively. Notably, blue light emerged as the predominant treatment modality in this context, used in around 64% of the cases. A total of 95% of the patients who were treated with blue light experienced a partial clearance of acne lesions; 44% experienced a reduction of 0% to 50% in their acne lesions, while 42% and 9% experienced reductions of 51% to 74% and 75% to 99%, respectively. Overall, the average total lesion count improved by 43% at week 4 compared to the baseline. The average number of treatment sessions was 22 (range 1-112 sessions). On average, treated patients responded within a period of 4 weeks. Commonly reported side effects included skin irritation and erythema. This review highlights the potential of visible light therapy in acne treatment. Head-to-head studies are needed to compare the efficacy of visible light compared to existing therapies for the treatment of acne.

Kegiatan Pemeriksaan Kulit Wajah dalam Rangka Deteksi Dini Jerawat pada Populasi Usia Produktif

Acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne, is a dermatological condition that is common among adolescents, affecting approximately 95% of this population. This multifactorial disease consists of genetic, hormonal, microbial, and environmental factors. The main harmful processes are more sebum production, hyperkeratinization, and colonisation with Propionibacterium acnes, which makes porphyrins that make the skin swell. This activity uses the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Action) methodology, which involves the facial skin analysis of 170 participants. According to the examination results, the average porphyrin content on the participants' facial skin was 63%. Early detection through comprehensive skin assessment and educational interventions is critical to preventing chronic and recurrent episodes, thereby improving physical and psychological well-being.

Serum zinc, selenium, and vitamin D levels in patients with acne vulgaris: A case-control study.

Acne vulgaris is a very common inflammatory skin disease that significantly impacts the quality of life of affected individuals. Previous studies have indicated that individuals with acne vulgaris often have low levels of zinc, selenium, and vitamin D. However, these three nutrients have rarely been collectively examined in a single study. The objective of this study was to compare serum levels of zinc, selenium, and vitamin D in patients with acne vulgaris in comparison to a control group. This case-control study included 100 adult patients with acne vulgaris attending a dermatology clinic, in 2020. A group of 100 patients without acne vulgaris attending the same clinics were evaluated as controls. Participants' sociodemographic characteristics, including age, sex, occupation, alcohol consumption, and tobacco smoking were recorded. In addition, anthropometric indices, such as weight and height, were measured and the body mass index (BMI) was calculated accordingly. Acne severity was determined using Tutakne and Chari's grading system. Serum zinc, selenium, and vitamin D levels were evaluated in peripheral blood samples of all the participants. Acne patients and controls were comparable regarding age, sex, weight, height, BMI, occupation, alcohol consumption, and tobacco smoking (p > 0.05). Serum zinc, selenium, and vitamin D levels were all significantly lower in acne patients than in controls (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the frequency of abnormal zinc and vitamin D levels was significantly higher in acne patients (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively), but there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding abnormal serum selenium levels (p = 0.228). Also, serum zinc, selenium, and vitamin D levels lower levels in patients with grade 4 acne compared to other disease severity grades (p < 0.001). Patients with acne vulgaris have lower levels of serum zinc, selenium, and vitamin D compared to the control group. Additionally, there is a correlation between the severity of the disease and lower levels of these nutrients.