Restoration of outflow of sebum from hair follicles can normalize the penetration
of oxides in them and prevents excessive reproduction of opportunistic anaerobic
bacteria
Cutibacterium аcnes. The smoothness of the stratum corneum of the epidermis
increases the permeability of the skin for external (local, topical) anti-acne medications
[20].
Among all hydroxy acids for chemical peels, glycolic acid is most commonly
used.
Glycolic acid has a minimal molecular weight and therefore it is better than other
acids to penetrate into the skin. It is used to remove comedones and fight
Cutibacterium аcnes on the skin (has a moderate bactericidal effect). The clinical effect
of peeling with glycolic acid depends on a number of factors:
• concentration of acids and pH of the solution,
• duration of contact with skin,
• Individual skin properties.
For the treatment of comedones and the elimination of supply, peeling with (50-
70) % glycolic acid (pH below 2) is used. For daily home skin care, use (10-15) %
glycolic acid (pH above 3.8). The effectiveness of the course of glycolic peeling with
6 treatments is higher than home use 2 times a day with 15 % of the cream with glycolic
acid. Apply a cream at home is recommended only to those who do not tolerate the
procedure of peeling [1, 17].
Chemical peels are usually recommended for complex acne treatment, but can
also be used on their own.
Glycolic peeling with 70 % glycolic acid:
• with comedones gives the fastest effect,
• In the case of papule-pustular forms, it requires an average of 6 procedures,
• When nodular-cystic acne requires 8-10 procedures (with atrophic scars from
acne smoothed out).
β-hydroxy acids - salicylic acid, resorcinol.
Salicylic acid is recommended to be used externally as irritating, anti-
inflammatory, keratoplasty, keratolytic, drying and antiseptic. With a sufficient
concentration of salicylic acid, it can coagulate microbial proteins. When applied has
a pronounced effect on sensitive nerve endings. In addition, it improves trophy, reduces
pain. The remedy has the ability to reduce the secretion of not only sebaceous but also
sweat glands. When using low concentrations there is a keratoplasty, and at high
concentrations of the solution - the keratolytic action of the drug. There is weak
antimicrobial activity [2].
Resorcinol - a sedative and disinfectant. Resorcinol is used in low concentrations
(0.25-2 %) in lotions and ointments as a keratoplasty (epithelizing, healing) remedy,
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