The efficacy and tolerability of 40% pyruvic acid peel on acne vulgaris, post acne scar and hyperpigmentation in Indians.

INTRODUCTION

Pyruvic acid in concentration between 40% and 70% is currently been used as a superficial to medium peeling agent for various dermatological indications including acne. However, there is a paucity of its efficacy studies on acne in Asians, particularly in Indian skin.

AIM: Our study was aimed at determining the efficacy and tolerability of 40% pyruvic acid on acne, post-acne hyperpigmentation, and scarring.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A total of 30 patients with active acne, post-acne scarring, and hyperpigmentation were included. Patients already on oral antibiotic or topical antiacne medication for the last 4 weeks, a history of hypertrophic scarring, keloids, active or recurrent herpes were excluded. Chemical peeling was done at 2 weekly interval from 0 to 12 weeks. An objective assessment of active acne lesions, post-acne scarring, and hyperpigmentation was made at each visit that is at 0, 4,8,12, and 24 weeks. Patients were followed up 2 weeks after the last peel and again at 24 weeks. Permission from the ethical committee was also obtained.

RESULTS

There was significant decrease in the number of comedones at 12 weeks compared with 0 week (p = 0.001). Similarly, the number of papules decreased from o weeks to 12 weeks (p value 0.004). Acne score improved from 0 weeks to 12 weeks (p < 0.0001); from 0 weeks to 24 weeks (p = 0.011). and hyperpigmentation improved from 0 weeks to 12 weeks (p = 0.008); from 0 weeks to 24 weeks (p = 0.021).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed a significant decrease in comedones, papules, acne score, and hyperpigmentation, though acne scar did not improve significantly. However, a study with larger sample is needed due to the limited number of patient population in our study.