Acne

Chapter 27 Acne



Acne can be treated both with topical and oral medications that may fall into either the prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) categories. Cosmeceuticals, of course, are OTC products that can alter some of the mechanics of acne formation. It is also possible that some cosmeceutical ingredients may even cause comedogenic acne. Substances that appear on the lists of comedogenic ingredients include cocoa butter, isopropyl myristate, industrial quality mineral oil, industrial quality petrolatum, and vegetable oils. No current cosmetic manufacturer would consider using anything but cosmetic grade mineral oil and petrolatum. Industrial grades are cheaper, but may also contain tar contaminants. These tar contaminants are comedogenic, possibly accounting for some of the older reports regarding the comedogenicity of mineral oil and petrolatum. However, these data are quite outdated and no longer pertinent to modern formulations. For all practical purposes, the concept of acne cosmetica is no longer germane.


Pomade acne, on the other hand, is a viable concept. Pomade acne afflicts the skin along the hairline in individuals who use these styling products to add shine, moisturization, and manageability to chemically straightened hair. Both olive oil and cocoa butter are still used in some of the older pomade formulations on the market. Pomade acne can be prevented through the avoidance of these substances and the use of high-quality, pure cosmetic grade raw materials.


The cosmeceuticals that are useful adjuvants in the treatment of acne are listed in Table 27.1

Only gold members can continue reading. Log In or Register to continue

Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel

Mar 12, 2016 | Posted by in General Surgery | Comments Off on Acne

Full access? Get Clinical Tree

Get Clinical Tree app for offline access