Introduction Acne is estimated to affect 9.4% of the global population, making it the 8th most prevalent disease worldwide. Acne vulgaris (AV) is among the diseases that directly affect quality of life. This trial evaluated the efficacy of individualized homeopathic medicines (IHM) against placebo in AV. Methods In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted at the National Institute of Homoeopathy, India, 126 patients suffering from AV were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either IHM (verum) in centesimal potencies or identical-looking placebo (control). The primary outcome measure was the Global Acne Grading System score; secondary outcomes were the Cardiff Acne Disability Index and Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaires — all measured at baseline and 3 months after the intervention. Group differences and effect sizes (Cohen's d) were calculated on the intention-to-treat sample. Results Overall, improvements were greater in the IHM group than placebo, with small to medium effect sizes after 3 months of intervention; however, the inter-group differences were statistically non-significant. Sulphur (17.5%), Natrum muriaticum (15.1%), Calcarea phosphorica (14.3%), Pulsatilla nigricans (10.3%), and Antimonium crudum (7.1%) were the most frequently prescribed medicines; Pulsatilla nigricans, Tuberculinum bovinum and Natrum muriaticum were the most effective of those used. No harms, unintended effects, homeopathic aggravations or any serious adverse events were reported from either group. Conclusion There was non-significant direction of effect favoring homeopathy against placebo in the treatment of AV. Trial Registration: CTRI/2018/11/016248; UTN: U1111–1221–8164.

Sebaceous cysts are typical, non-cancerous cysts of the skin. These cysts are unusual bodily growths that may contain liquid or semiliquid substances, even though they can occur anywhere on the body except the palms and soles. A patient suffering from painful cystic swelling for 4-5 years is presented. After case analysis and evaluation, totality was constructed and after repertorisation, the most appropriate one Sulphur 0/1 was prescribed. Alongside medication, the regular dressing was done with Calendula Q and normal saline. A proper follow-up record was maintained and given accordingly. The treatment was continued for 8-10 weeks and the cystic swelling was completely healed at end of the treatment. In this case study, homoeopathic treatment is recommended as a viable supplemental or alternative therapy, highlighting the importance of repertorization in customised homoeopathic prescriptions.