Assessing the Benefits of an Innovative Chemical Peel Containing Biofunctionals on Adult Acne-Prone Skin: An...

Acne is the most prevalent skin disorder in the United States, affecting up to 50 million people from all age groups. Treatment options include topical and systemic therapies. Limitation in many treatment options opens avenues for alternative therapies, such as chemical peeling.

This exploratory study, funded by Colgate Palmolive company, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a new chemical peel (PCAskin Acne Peel Plus) in treating adult acne. The novel peel features a blend of acids and biofunctional ingredients designed to aid in acne management. The study's primary objective was to assess the novel peel's effectiveness in positively influencing acne severity, specifically by reducing acne lesions, papules, and pustules.

Sixteen participants aged 25-40 years old, with Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI, presenting evidence of mild-to-moderate acne, were assessed over a 12-week period following treatment initiation.

The effects of the test peel on acne were evaluated using a combination of methods. Skin sebum was measured using a moisture meter (BGJOY, SK-IV digital moisture monitor for skin). Photographic data was obtained using the Canfield Visia CR System (Canfield, Fairfield, NJ; model Generation 7, software version 8) for determining acne severity, appearance of skin pores, texture and redness. Acne severity was assessed by the study investigator using the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) acne severity scale from the Visia images. Subjective assessment of skin parameters (acne severity, oiliness of the skin, pore size, skin discoloration, skin texture/smoothness, overall clarity of skin tone, and changes in scarring appearance) was also obtained at the start (Day 0) and end (Week 12) of the study using self-assessment questionnaires filled out by the study subjects.

Significant decreases in total acne lesions (papules + pustules; p-value = 0.012) and papules (p-value = 0.023) were observed at the outset of the study (Week 12) compared to baseline (Day 0), with an average change (standard deviation) of -2.0 (2.6) and -1.8 (2.5) lesions, respectively. In addition, significant improvements in sebum content (Week 12, p-value = 0.042), erythema (Week 12, p-value = 0.030), and pore appearance (Day 1; p-value = 0.005; Week 12, p-value = 0.003) were observed compared to baseline. Positive perceptions of the treatment among participants and perceived improvements in acne severity (p-value = 0.004) and skin clarity (p-value = 0.036) were also highlighted. No adverse effects were observed during the study.

This preliminary exploratory study indicates that treatment with a novel chemical peel appeared to yield a range of benefits for adults with acne-prone skin, supporting its potential as a safe, inexpensive, and minimally invasive treatment for the management of mild-to-moderate forms of adult acne. Further large scale, controlled studies are necessary to confirm these initial findings.