Low-dose isotretinoin plus supramolecular salicylic acid safe, effective in acne treatment

In the treatment of patients with acne vulgaris, chemical peeling with supramolecular salicylic acid (SSA) in combination with low-dose isotretinoin is safe and produces rapid improvement in lesion clearance, as shown in a study.

The study included 33 patients with moderate-to-severe acne who received low-dose (0.2–0.4 mg/kg/d) isotretinoin orally. They were randomized to treatment with 30% SSA or no-treatment on each side of the face with 2-week intervals for a total of four sessions.

Researchers took photos and evaluated the number of lesions and The Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score. They also looked at skin indices (melanin, erythema, pore, and texture), hydration, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). These assessments were conducted at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, 6, and 10 weeks. Side effects, efficacy, and satisfactory rates were also recorded.

Of the patients enrolled, 29 completed the study. Compared with isotretinoin monotherapy, the addition of chemical peeling with SSA shortened response time. Marked positive changes in GAGS score, count of lesions, and efficacy were observed at 4–6 weeks.

Additionally, the combination yielded improvements in skin indices of melanin, erythema, pore, and texture at week 10.

Oral isotretinoin with or without SSA was effective in terms of lesion clearance. However, TEWL improved only with the addition of SSA.

All the side effects were temporary and tolerable, and none of the patients experienced adverse effects.