Effectiveness of EFFACLAR H ISO-BIOME preparations as an adjunct to conventional treatment of acne vulgaris — results of an observational study

Abstract

Background: Although topical dermocosmetics are widely used care products, only a few studies investigated their effectiveness in enhancing the tolerance and efficacy of medical anti-acne therapies. The primary objective of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of EFFACLAR H ISO-BIOME cream and washing cream as an adjunct to pharmacological treatment (local and/or systemic) administered for at least 12 weeks in patients with mild to very severe acne vulgaris. Material and methods: This observational study was conducted in patients (n = 306) aged 14 years and over with mild to very severe [Global Acne Severity Scale (GEA) 1–5] acne vulgaris. Participants were instructed to apply the EFFACLAR H ISO-BIOME cream and washing cream twice daily for at least 12 weeks along with prescribed anti-acne therapy (topical agents, oral isotretinoin, or systemic antibiotics/ /spironolactone combined with topical agents). Results: The treatment regimen led to an improvement in GEA scores in 88.9% of all patients (p < 0.05). Statistically significant changes were observed in the reduction of sebum secretion, number of papules and pustules, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, and erythema (p < 0.05). The vast majority of dermatologists and patients rated the tolerance of the products as very good (97% and 94%, respectively). The quality of life of most patients improved by the end of the study. Conclusions: EFFACLAR H ISO-BIOME cream and washing cream are safe and effective products used as adjunctive treatment to topical or systemic therapy of mild to very severe acne vulgaris.