The efficacy and tolerability of 40% Pyruvic acid 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 were 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 to 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.