Significant improvement in mild acne following a twice daily application for 6weeks of an acidic cleansing product (pH 4)

Background Cleansing products for acne should remove excessive sebum, reduce acne-related bacteria and improve inflammation. Aims The aim of the study was to investigate a topical cleansing product containing glycolic acid with pH 4 in mild acne vulgaris. Methods Sixty patients were recruited for this open uncontrolled clinical trial. The tested product was exclusively applied twice a day for 6weeks. The efficacy was judged by a dermatologist according to the Leeds score after 3 and 6weeks. In addition, efficacy and tolerability were judged subjectively by physician and patients. Results Mild acne improved significantly after 6 weeks (baseline: 0.699 vs. day 42: 0.602; P<0.001). Efficacy and tolerability were judged better by physician as compared with patients' assessment. Conclusion In this clinical trial, a topical cleansing product containing glycolic acid with pH 4 improved mild acne significantly following twice-daily application for 6weeks as monotherapy.