hydroxy-acids, glycolic acid (in low concentrations), and nicotinamide may be able to control the disorder. SA, available in creams, lotions, and pads, helps unclog pores resolve lesions but lacks bactericidal activity.7 SA is the most common form of BHA, and concentrations can range between 0.5 and 5 percent, depending on the product type.7 Formulations containing AHA are suitable for dry skin, and surface-level skin concerns like acne scars and BHAs containing products are suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. Both AHA and BHA are available in combined formulations or can be used by alternating two products.7 When using these products, sunscreen should be applied daily.13,18
The panel recommends that cleansing agents and moisturizers suitable for oily skin or sensitive skin, with ingredients that help control sebaceous secretion, are the right choice for acne patients.
Barrier dysfunction correlates with hyperkeratinization and comedone formation.14 Increased trans-epidermal-water-loss (TEWL) and inconsistent ceramide content in the stratum corneum are well characterized in acne patients.14 Therefore, an effective adjuvant skincare regimen must focus on removing excess sebum and debris on the skin surface (cleansing) and improving skin barrier (moisturizing).12,13
Improving skin barrier function is important for increasing tolerability, leading to enhanced adherence to treatment and efficacy.19 The primary goal of adjunctive skincare focuses on repairing the epidermal barrier to reduce TEWL and improve epidermal hydration. Ceramides containing products help to reduce TEWL and to improve skin barrier function.13
The number one attribute for a cleanser to be considered adjunctive therapy is the lack of irritation to exacerbate the
