Acne Research Articles

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Using LED Light Combined With Chromophore Gel in Treating Acne Vulgaris - Preliminary Study.

The aim was to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of LED light therapy combined with photoacceptor substances having anti-acne properties in reducing the symptoms of acne vulgaris. 15 subjects aged 20 to 24 who suffered from moderate or severe acne lesions. The treatments were performed using a LED device (465-880 nm). Blue light - 465 nm in combination with red light - 640 nm in pulsed mode and near-infrared light - 880 nm were used in the treatments. Each patient underwent 6 treatments, with intervals between treatments of 7 days. 3D images and biomechanical measurements were performed before first and fourth treatments and 6weeks after the last. Additionally, photographic documentation was made 7 days after the 6th treatment. The series of treatments significantly influenced the clinical condition of the patients' skin. The treatments had a statistically significant impact on the intensity of erythema on the left and right cheeks. The hydration of the stratum corneum in all the examined areas of the face changed significantly after the treatments. Greater hydration was achieved six weeks after six treatments compared to the values obtained prior to treatment and after three treatments. The activity of sebaceous glands and, consequently, the amount of sebum on the epidermal surface in all the examined areas of the face changed significantly after the treatments. The treatments had a statistically significant impact on the volume of atrophic scars. Therapy combining LED light with photoacceptor substances is an effective method of reducing the symptoms of acne vulgaris. The treatments lead to a significant reduction in erythema, reduction in the volume of atrophic scars, improvement of skin hydration and regulation of sebum secretion. These effects can be identified quantitatively. Further studies are necessary to confirm the long-term effectiveness and safety of this method.

A comparative analysis of CO2 fractional laser feathering technique versus traditional methods in acne scar treatment

A comparative analysis of CO2 fractional laser feathering technique versus traditional methods in acne scar treatment

Network pharmacology, transcriptomics, and biological validation reveal a lipid secretion inhibitory and anti-inflammatory mechanism of tanreqing gel in the treatment of acne.

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease affecting the pilosebaceous unit, in which abnormal sebum secretion and inflammation play crucial roles. The traditional Chinese medicine Tanreqing has been utilized in dermatology to effectively treat various diseases. However, its effects and underlying mechanisms in acne vulgaris remain unclear. This study aims to assess the potential benefits of Tanreqing gel (TRQ) in acne treatment and to explore the mechanisms by which TRQ inhibits sebum secretion and reduces inflammation. A mouse model of acne induced by Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) was established. The impact of TRQ on acne lesions was assessed using optical imaging and histopathology. Network pharmacology and transcriptomics were used to identify significant intervention pathways and targets. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to detect the expression of genes and proteins associated with inflammation and sebum metabolism. TRQ significantly improved pathological changes in the lesion areas of mice, such as redness, vascular dilation, and increased blood flow. It also reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the dermis and inhibited the accumulation of lipids in the sebaceous glands. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that TRQ might exert anti-inflammatory effects through the IL-17, TOLL-like receptor, and NF-κB signaling pathways. The transcriptomic analysis confirmed the importance of these pathways in the C. acnes-induced acne model. Furthermore, TRQ was found to reduce sebum secretion by inhibiting fatty acid biosynthesis through the suppression of proteins in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Cell experiments confirmed that TRQ could suppress the release of inflammatory factors induced by C. acnes surface structure peptidoglycan (PGN) and metabolite porphyrins. Additionally, it was observed to reverse the elevated porphyrin secretion associated with abnormal sebum production, ultimately relieving acne inflammation. This study demonstrated that TRQ effectively alleviates C. acnes-induced acne symptoms by inhibiting sebum secretion and inflammatory responses through multiple pathways and targets. It provides new insights and directions for acne treatment.

New horizons in the treatment of psoriasis: Modulation of gut microbiome.

The last decennia have witnessed spectacular advances in our knowledge about the influence of the gut microbiome on the development of a wide swathe of diseases that extend beyond the digestive tract, including skin diseases like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, rosacea, alopecia areata, and hidradenitis suppurativa. The novel concept of the gut-skin axis delves into how skin diseases and the microbiome interact through inflammatory mediators, metabolites, and the intestinal barrier. Elucidating the effects of the gut microbiome on skin health could provide new opportunities for developing innovative treatments for dermatological diseases. Psoriasis is a complex disease with multiple factors contributing to its development, such as diet, lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and the microbiome. This paper has a dual purpose. First, we outline the current knowledge on the unique gut microbiota patterns implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Second, and of equal importance, we briefly discuss the reciprocal impact of psoriasis treatment and gut microbiome. In addition, this review explores potential therapeutic targets based on microbial interventions, which hold promise for providing new treatment options for psoriasis.

A Comparative Study on Internet Addiction in Iranian People With and Without Acne Vulgaris

A Comparative Study on Internet Addiction in Iranian People With and Without Acne Vulgaris

The Role of Exosomes in Medical Dermatology: Literature Review and Update.

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles, composed of a phospholipid bilayer, that are primarily derived from stem cells. The contents of exosomes can be incorporated into the tissue in which they are introduced, which presents a unique therapeutic option. Exosomes have been investigated as a treatment for a number of medical ailments, but the literature supporting these indications is inconclusive. In addition, much of the study on exosomes and their uses has been recently completed. Thus, this review summarizes the efficacy and implications of exosomes in the treatment of different dermatologic conditions. A literature review surrounding the use of exosomes for multiple medical dermatological conditions was conducted. Additionally, we present numerous practical cases in which patients had been treated with exosomes. Overall, the success of exosomes in treating medical dermatologic conditions demonstrated varying efficacy in the literature, but the preliminary evidence is generally positive. The patient cases also showed satisfactory clinical outcomes but further studies and cases will be necessary to fully characterize the efficacy of exosomes and the ideal modalities for their application, including formulation, mode of distribution, and frequency of treatment. Exosomes may serve as an effective treatment option for wound healing, reconstruction of skin flaps, radiation dermatitis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, lichen simplex chronicus, vulvar lichen sclerosis, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and vitiligo although additional studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety.

Meibography health score: a simple grading system for isotretinoin-induced meibography alterations on patients with acne vulgaris.

To develop a simple, subjective, and reliable grading scale for isotretinoin-induced meibography changes. After analyzing meibography images obtained from systemic isotretinoin users, a grading scale was proposed and named "meibography health score." The score ranged from 1 to 3, with decreasing gland reflectivity and identifiable margins. A total of 11 medical professionals were asked to grade 10 meibography images obtained from isotretinoin users using the proposed scale and were divided into three groups: (A) ophthalmologists with experience with meibography, (B) ophthalmologists with no experience with meibography, and (C) radiologists. The kappa statistic was determined to test interrater reliability. The overall kappa was approximately 0.64. The kappa scores for Groups A, B, and C were 0.78, 0.59, and 0.90, respectively. Grade 2 had the lowest kappa scores (0.62, 0.35, and 0.82 for A, B, and C, respectively) and grade 3 the highest (0.78, 0.90, and 1.0 for A, B and C, respectively). Furthermore, Group C had the highest kappa scores and Group B the lowest. The meibography health score exhibited good interrater reliability, particularly in severe cases.

Efficacy and Tolerability of a Novel Cosmetic and Over-the-Counter Facial Acne Regimen Versus a Prescription Treatment.

The SkinMedica Acne Treatment Platform (SM Regimen) was formulated to treat acne without overdrying the skin. We evaluated efficacy and tolerability of the SM Regimen (including a novel 1% salicylic acid Acne Clarifying Cleanser and 2% salicylic acid Acne Treatment Lotion) versus a prescription formulation (Rx Regimen; including adapalene 0.1%/benzoyl peroxide 2.5%) in a diverse population of adults with mild to moderate facial acne. This single-center, double-blind, randomized study enrolled adults (18-45 years) with Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) I-VI. SM Regimen or Rx Regimen was applied topically to the entire face for 12 weeks. Assessments were conducted at 24 and 48 h and 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Subjects (SM Regimen, n = 31; Rx Regimen, n = 23) were primarily female (90.7%) with mean age of 28.6 years; 53.8% had FST IV-VI. Efficacy was comparable between regimens. The SM regimen resulted in significant improvements versus baseline in mean Investigator's Global Assessment of acne severity from 48 h through week 12 (p ≤ 0.001), as well as significant and sustained improvements from baseline in total acne lesion count, global postinflammatory hyperpigmentation/postinflammatory erythema, and oiliness. The SM Regimen was well tolerated at all time points, with mean scores below mild for all parameters; the Rx Regimen caused significantly more tightness/dry feeling at week 4 versus SM Regimen (p = 0.008). Subjects (> 96%) reported high satisfaction with the SM Regimen at all time points. The SM Regimen reduced acne severity and skin oiliness, evening out skin tone without overdrying or irritating the skin.

Acne vulgaris managed with homoeopathy: An evidence based case report

Acne vulgaris managed with homoeopathy: An evidence based case report

Clinical evaluation of traditional Unani herbal extracts comprising Lupinus albus, crocus sativus, and Cucumis melo seeds for acne vulgaris: A single-arm clinical trial

Clinical evaluation of traditional Unani herbal extracts comprising Lupinus albus, crocus sativus, and Cucumis melo seeds for acne vulgaris: A single-arm clinical trial

Excimer Light and Topical Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide Gel in Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Excimer Light and Topical Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide Gel in Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

Hypocrellin A-mediated photodynamic antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes: An in vitro study.

Skin dysbiosis caused by Cutibacterium acnes contributes greatly to the complex pathogenesis of acne, and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for acne treatment. Hypocrellin, a photosensitizer extracted from a traditional Chinese medicinal fungus, has showed effective antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial ability of hypocrellin mediated PDT against Cutibacterium acnes. Using modified broth dilution method and morphological observation, the antibacterial effect was tested under a series of experimental conditions. The results showed that hypocrellin initiates type II photodynamic reactions by inducing amount of reactive oxygen species, particularly singlet oxygen. Within a certain concentration range, hypocrellin effectively maintained the antibacterial efficacy with minimal damage to keratinocyte cells. These results provide new insights into the use of PDT for acne treatment.

Formulation and Evaluation of Transdermal Dissolving Microneedle Loaded with Ethanol Extract of Cocor Bebek Leaves (Kalanchoe pinnata)

Background: Acne is a chronic skin inflammation caused by blockage of the sebaceous glands in the skin and hypercolonization of the acne-causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. Cocor bebek leaves (Kalanchoe pinnata) are known to contain various secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, with antibacterial activity. Objective: In an effort to prevent side effects from using oral and topical antibiotics to treat acne, an alternative acne treatment that is safer and more effective with a strong drug delivery system is needed: microneedle patch technology containing natural ingredients. Methods: A microneedle patch formulation of Cocor bebek leaf extract was developed using a combination of HPMC and PVP polymers. The evaluation of microneedle patches included irritation tests with rat test animals and antibacterial activity tests against Propionibacterium acnes. The results showed the formation of yellow microneedle patches with uniform needles. The evaluation results showed that the microneedle patch has an irritation index value classified as non-irritant and has antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes, with the highest inhibitory diameter at an extract concentration of 30% with a moderate inhibition category. Conclusion: The microneedle patch cocor bebek leaf extract shows potential as an effective drug delivery system for the treatment of acne that is safe for use on the skin.

COMPARING THE EFFICACY OF 35% TRICHLOROACETIC ACID (TCA) PEEL WITH TOPICAL 0.1% ADAPALENE GEL IN THE TREATMENT OF COMEDONAL ACNE

Comedonal acne is a common dermatological condition characterized by open and closed comedones. Treatment modalities, including chemical peels and topical retinoids, have managed comedonal acne. Aim and Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of 35% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel with topical 0.1% adapalene gel in treating comedonal acne. Methodology: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted at the Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan. A total of 80 patients with comedonal acne were recruited and randomly assigned to two treatment groups: Group A received 35% TCA peel, while Group B received topical 0.1% adapalene gel. The primary outcome measures included changes in comedonal lesion count and severity, assessed using standardized clinical photographs and dermatological examinations. Secondary outcomes comprised patient-reported improvement, adverse events, and treatment tolerability. Results: The mean age of participants was 25.4 ± 4.6 years, with a female predominance (65%). At baseline, both groups exhibited similar comedonal lesion counts and severity scores. Following treatment, a significant reduction in comedonal lesions was observed in both groups (p < 0.001). However, the reduction in comedonal lesion count was more significant in the 35% TCA peel group than the adapalene gel group (mean decrease of 80% vs. 60%, respectively). Additionally, patients in the TCA peel group reported higher satisfaction rates and fewer adverse events than the adapalene gel group. Conclusion: Our study suggests that 35% TCA peel is more effective than topical 0.1% adapalene gel in reducing comedonal acne lesions and improving patient satisfaction. TCA peel may represent a promising treatment option for patients with comedonal acne, offering superior efficacy and tolerability compared to topical retinoids.

Anti-microbial impact of non-antibiotic agents; salicylic acid, N-acetylcysteine, and isotretinoin against Cutibacterium acnes in patients with acne vulgaris.

There are two main strategies to eliminate Cutibacterium acnes and to reduce antibiotic resistance in acne treatment. The first is to target the pathogenic bacteria and the second is to change the environment for their growth. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-microbial role of non-antibiotic agents against Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) in acne vulgaris patients. The three agents of interest in the study were isotretinoin, salicylic acid, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC). The study included forty-eight patients with acne vulgaris with ages ranging from 16 to 30years, and they had different grades of the disease. Azithromycin and Doxycycline sensitivity and the ability of biofilm formation of C. acnes isolated from all patients were assessed before and after adding the 3 agents. Azithromycin and Doxycycline sensitivity was improved after adding the 3 agents and the ability of biofilm formation of C. acnes was also reduced. Isotretinoin, salicylic acid, and NAC can be promising adjuvants in treating acne vulgaris by their anti-microbial effect in reducing biofilm formation and improving antibiotic sensitivity. Clinical Trial NCT06179056.

Munir Rashid Chowdhury

Background: Acne vulgaris is a common dermatological condition influenced by factors such as pore blockage, excessive sebum production, and inflammation. This study evaluates the comedogenicity, skin tolerability, and functional benefits of Siodil acne treatment products, including Sebi Gel, Sebi Serum, Sebi Cleanser, and ATO Gel. Methods: A total of 26 participants aged 18–40 years underwent a 28-day open-label trial to assess the impact of Siodil products on pore blockage, skin hydration, and acne reduction. Comedogenicity was scored using a standardized acne grading scale, and patch tests were conducted to evaluate erythema and edema. Participant satisfaction and product tolerability were also assessed. Results: All products demonstrated significant improvements in skin hydration, with ATO Gel showing the highest improvement (32.47%), followed by Sebi Gel (30.56%). Acne breakout reduction was highest for Sebi Cleanser (85%), while Sebi Serum showed the greatest whitehead/blackhead reduction (76.92%). Patch tests revealed no occurrences of erythema or edema at 24 and 48 hours. Participant feedback indicated high satisfaction, with Sebi Gel receiving the highest satisfaction rating (90%). Conclusion: Siodil acne treatment products effectively reduce acne-related outcomes while improving skin hydration and demonstrating excellent tolerability. These findings suggest Siodil products are safe and effective for managing acne-prone skin, though further research is warranted to confirm these results in larger populations.

Truncal Acne in Adolescents and Young Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Self-Reported Perception

Truncal Acne in Adolescents and Young Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Self-Reported Perception

Drug-Device Combinations in Dermatology: Integrating Pharmaceuticals with Advanced Cosmetic Technologies

Background: A paradigm shift is brought about by the combination of medicines with cutting-edge medical technology, which improves patient outcomes, effectiveness, and accuracy. The review dives into applications such as anti-aging therapy, nanotechnology, and acne treatment while also examining obstacles, traditional procedures, and current breakthroughs. It highlights the difficulties with patient adherence, safety, and regulatory barriers while projecting a future where genetics, biosensors, and artificial intelligence will power tailored therapies. Emphasis is placed on the potential for global dermatological health, imagining a time when drugdevice combos would alter skincare globally. Objectives: This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of drug-device combinations in dermatology and advancement in drug-device combinations for dermatological therapy. Methods: A literature search was performed on PubMed and Google Scholar using the following key terms” Dermatology,” “Cosmetic technologies,” “Dermatopharmacology,” “Beauty Perception,” and “Skincare.” Result: The assessment of the safety and effectiveness profiles of various drug-device combinations, considering long-term effects, adverse events, patient satisfaction, and clinical results. This includes an examination of the fundamental processes by which pharmaceuticals and cuttingedge cosmetic technologies work together to produce therapeutic outcomes like improved drug delivery, targeted therapy, and synergistic effects. Conclusion: In conclusion, drug-device combinations offer a viable way to improve therapeutic outcomes and elevate patient care in dermatology by fusing pharmaceuticals with cutting-edge cosmetic technology. Our analysis focuses on the wide range of combinations that are currently available, as well as their effectiveness, safety profiles, and underlying mechanisms of action. Even though there has been a lot of development, issues, including patient variability, technical constraints, and regulatory barriers, still exist.

A Systematic Review of Spironolactone Nano-Formulations for Topical Treatment of Skin Hyperandrogenic Disorders and Chronic Wounds.

Background/Objectives: Spironolactone (SP), an aldosterone inhibitor widely used to treat androgen-dependent disorders such as acne, hirsutism, and alopecia, has demonstrated therapeutic potential in both oral and topical formulations. However, SP's low solubility and poor bioavailability in conventional formulations have driven the development of novel nanocarriers to enhance its efficacy. This review systematically examines recent advancements in SP-loaded nanocarriers, including lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), vesicular nanoparticles (VNPs), polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs), and nanofibers (NFs). Methods: A search strategy was developed, and the relevant literature was systematically searched using databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The review process, including screening, inclusion, and exclusion criteria, adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: A comprehensive analysis of 13 eligible research articles, corresponding to 15 studies, highlights key aspects such as encapsulation efficiency, stability, particle size, and in vitro and in vivo efficacy. Six studies focused on lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), which were found to improve SP's bioavailability and skin permeation. Another six studies investigated vesicular nanoparticles (VNPs), such as ethosomes and niosomes, demonstrating superior skin targeting and penetration capabilities. Two studies on polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) showed effectiveness in delivering SP to hair follicles for the treatment of alopecia and acne. Additionally, one study on SP-loaded nanofibers indicated significant potential for topical rosacea therapy. Conclusions: SP-loaded nanocarrier systems represent promising advancements in targeted topical therapy. However, further clinical studies are required to optimize their safety, efficacy, and delivery mechanisms.

Clinical Experience of Yan Changhong in the Treatment of Acne with Modified Loquat Qingfei Decoction Combined with Bloodletting and Cupping at Special Acupoints

Acne is one of the common and frequent diseases in clinic, Prof. Yan Changhong is a famous traditional Chinese medicine practitioner in Baotou City with rich clinical experience. He believes that the key organs of acne are in the lungs and the disease is in the skin, it is also related to the spleen and the stomach. The main mechanism is that the lungs and the stomach are full of heat, the heat and toxin are embedded in the skin, and the main pathological factors are toxicity, heat, dampness, phlegm, and blood stasis. Prof. Yan Changhong often applies the modified Loquat Qingfei Decoction combined with bloodletting and cupping at special acupoints.