Acne vulgaris, a common skin condition that affects many individuals, can be particularly stubborn to treat. This study explored the effectiveness of oxybrasion, a newer treatment method, combined with medical-grade acids, in reducing acne severity. By examining a sample of 44 women, the study aimed to determine whether combining these treatments could yield better results than using oxybrasion alone.

Understanding Oxybrasion and Its Role in Acne Treatment

Oxybrasion, also known as oxygen peeling, is a non-invasive skin treatment that exfoliates the skin using oxygen and saline solution. This method gently removes the outer layer of dead skin cells, promoting cell regeneration and improving skin texture. The procedure is relatively new but has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in exfoliating the skin without causing irritation or downtime.

The Study Design: A Closer Look

The study involved 44 women diagnosed with acne vulgaris, divided into two groups:

• Group A (n = 22) received a series of five oxybrasion treatments.

• Group B (n = 22) underwent five oxybrasion treatments combined with a mixture of phytic, pyruvic, lactic, and ferulic acids at 40% pH 1.4.

Treatments were administered every 14 days, with the effectiveness measured using the Derma Unit SCC3 apparatus, Sebumeter SM 815, Corneometer CM825, and the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) scale.

Baseline Comparisons

Before starting the treatments, both groups were compared in terms of age, duration of acne, and acne severity to ensure there were no significant differences that could affect the results. The Mann-Whitney U-test confirmed that the groups were comparable:

• Age: No significant differences (U = 242, p = 1.000)

• Duration of Acne: No significant differences (U = 279, p = 0.354)

Results: Oxybrasion Alone vs. Combined Treatment

After the treatments, significant differences were observed between the two groups:

• Group A (Oxybrasion only): Showed improvement in acne severity.

• Group B (Oxybrasion + Acids): Demonstrated significantly greater improvement in acne severity compared to Group A.

The Bonferroni post hoc test revealed:

• Before treatment, there was no difference in acne severity between the groups (p = 1.00).

• After treatment, Group B showed significantly better results than Group A (p < 0.001).

These findings suggest that while oxybrasion alone is effective, combining it with medical-grade acids significantly enhances its acne-reducing effects.

The Synergy of Oxybrasion and Cosmetic Acids

The combined treatment's superior results can be attributed to the complementary actions of oxybrasion and the acids:

• Oxybrasion: Exfoliates the dead epidermis, enhancing the skin's ability to absorb active ingredients.

• Cosmetic Acids: Provide exfoliating, seboregulating, and anti-inflammatory properties, further reducing acne severity.

The acids used in the study—phytic, pyruvic, lactic, and ferulic—are known for their skin benefits:

• Phytic Acid: Brightens the skin and reduces pigmentation.

• Pyruvic Acid: Exfoliates and reduces sebum production.

• Lactic Acid: Hydrates and exfoliates.

• Ferulic Acid: Provides antioxidant protection.

By combining these acids with oxybrasion, the study achieved a powerful treatment capable of addressing multiple acne-related issues simultaneously.

Implications for Skincare Professionals

For licensed skincare professionals, the study highlights the importance of combining treatments to achieve optimal results for clients with acne. Sokörpe's Amande Plus™ Mandelic Acid Serum and Super Boost™ 20% 3-O-Ethylated Ascorbic Acid Solution (EAA) are excellent examples of products that can be used alongside oxybrasion to enhance its effects.

• Amande Plus™ Mandelic Acid Serum: Contains 11% Mandelic Acid (AHA), 3% Lactic Acid (AHA), and 1% Organic Hyaluronic Acid. This serum exfoliates, hydrates, and brightens the skin, making it an ideal companion to oxybrasion treatments.

• Super Boost™ 20% 3-O-Ethylated Ascorbic Acid Solution: Combines EAA with Propanediol and 0.5% Ferulic Acid to provide antioxidant protection, stimulate collagen synthesis, and reduce dark spots. When used after oxybrasion, it can further enhance the skin's health and appearance.

This study underscores the benefits of combining oxybrasion with medical-grade acids for treating acne vulgaris. The results indicate that while oxybrasion alone is effective, adding a blend of phytic, pyruvic, lactic, and ferulic acids significantly improves outcomes. For skincare professionals, incorporating products like Sokörpe's Amande Plus™ Mandelic Acid Serum and Super Boost™ 20% 3-O-Ethylated Ascorbic Acid Solution can help clients achieve clearer, healthier skin.

By understanding the science behind these treatments and utilizing high-quality products, skincare professionals can offer their clients the best possible care, resulting in lasting improvements in acne severity and overall skin health.

By Alexander Brosda, CEO Sokörpe Laboratories