The increased prevalence of acne in adult women can be attributed to the ambient environmental- and lifestyle-associated stressors. The anti-acne treatments with benzoyl peroxide technology are known to cause dehydration of the skin, which may further accelerate ageing and reduce treatment compliance. Adding bio-functional actives replenishes hydration and improves barrier function, thus fastening the onset of anti-acne benefits in addition to restoring a healthy appearance and counteracting skin ageing effects.

A study tested the safety and efficacy of a new three-step topical anti-acne regimen designed specifically to improve the overall condition and appearance of the skin in women with acne. 

The test formulation included three products: 

1. A gentle exfoliating cleanser with colloidal sulfur, salicylic acid, and vitamin E
2. A pore-clarifying toner with glycolic acid, gluconolactone, and panthenol
3. An innovative dual-chamber BPO leave-on lotion treatment containing niacinamide, allantoin, and a blend of ceramides. 

The study enrolled women aged between 22 to 44 years with mild to moderate acne, who were tested for safety and efficacy of the formulation in an 8-week study.

The observations from the study were described as follows-

• 31 women completed the study.
• Improvement in Acne severity and lesion counts, including comedones and papules, were noted gradually starting from week 1, throughout the study period.
• The improvements reached statistical and clinical relevance at weeks 4 and 8.
• Significant improvements were noted on skin roughness, radiance, overall healthy appearance, and oiliness (further confirmed with decreased sebum production).
• Participants reported noticeable improvements in acne lesions and overall healthier-looking skin after the study contrasting with the baseline.  
• Overall younger-looking skin was described by the participants at the end of the study period.

Thus the three-step regimen was rendered efficacious with anti-acne benefits to the skin, along with being gentle, safe, and well-tolerated.

Source: International Journal of Womens Dermatology, 2020;6(5):419-423. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2020.07.013.