A recent study has revealed that a 2.6% benzoyl peroxide (BPO) cleanser can effectively reduce acne lesions in adults with sensitive skin and acne vulgaris without causing irritation.
Benzoyl peroxide has long been utilized in treating acne vulgaris, available in various formulations, including creams, gels, and cleansers. However, its use has been limited for individuals with sensitive skin due to concerns about potential irritation. This prompted researchers, led by Dr. James Q. Del Rosso of JDR Dermatology Research, to explore different concentrations and formulations of BPO, including micronization and microencapsulation.
In this single-center, open-label study, 28 adult participants, aged 18 to 45—comprising 25 women—self-identified as having sensitive skin and mild to moderate acne vulgaris. They were instructed to use the Complexion Clearing AV Cleanser (Cetaphil, Galderma), which contains 2.6% micronized BPO, twice daily for four weeks.
Results indicated a significant decrease in total acne lesion counts from an average of 15.1 to 11.3 (a reduction of 25.17%) after one week. After four weeks, the count decreased to 13.3, reflecting an 11.92% reduction that, while numerically significant, did not reach statistical significance.
The study also assessed the quantity of Cutibacterium acnes through porphyrin counts. At week one, the counts on the left and right sides decreased from 769.357 and 784.857 to 619.786 (a reduction of 19.4%) and 558.714 (28.8%), respectively. At week four, the counts showed further reductions to 679.893 (11.6%) and 700.536 (10.7%), but these changes were not statistically significant.
Additionally, the porphyrin area exhibited a significant reduction at week one, decreasing from 95.526 to 75.864 (20.6%) on the left side, and from 95.282 to 70.164 (26.3%) on the right side. By week four, the left side measured 84.121 (an 11.9% reduction) and the right side 85.103 (10.7%).
Patient satisfaction was high, with self-reported questionnaires indicating positive outcomes. At week one, 89.3% of the 28 patients noted their skin felt soft, and 85.7% reported a smoother, less oily texture. By week four, the same percentage (89.3%) felt the cleanser was gentle, and 82.1% stated it was non-drying while effectively reducing their acne.
“These encouraging results were anticipated,” the authors stated, “as the Complexion Clearing AV Cleanser was specifically designed to minimize skin irritation while utilizing 2.6% micronized BPO as the active ingredient. This cleanser is suitable for use during and between acne flare-ups and not only enhances acne management but is also well-tolerated and well-received by individuals with perceived sensitive skin.”
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