The use of pyruvic acid in the treatment of acne

Background Acne is one of the most common dermatological diseases, affecting about 50% of adolescents. Different chemical peelings are used in local treatment, either alone or in association with other therapies. Objective To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of chemical peeling with pyruvic acid for treatment of mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne. Methods We conducted an open-label study in which patients affected by mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne were treated with 40-50% pyruvic acid every 2 weeks for a total of 3-4 months. Forty patients (26 women and 14 men), ranging in age from 18 to 30 years, were enrolled in the study. Evaluations of sebum production and skin hydration were performed before and after treatment in 24 patients. Results Complete remission was observed in 16 patients (40%), partial remission was detected in 20 patients (50%), and no improvement was seen in four patients (10%). No side-effects were observed during or after treatment. Post-treatment evaluation of sebum production in 24 patients revealed a reduction in sebum levels in all patients. Post-treatment values of cutaneous hydration did not vary significantly from pretreatment values in the 24 patients evaluated. Conclusions The results of our study indicate that peeling with pyruvic acid can be considered an effective, safe and well-tolerated procedure in the treatment of patients affected by mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne.