Azelaic Acid in the Treatment of Acne in Adult Females: Case Reports

Abstract

Acne, one of the most common skin problems in dermatological practice, is a condition that affects not only adolescents but also adults. While approximately 80% of cases occurring in adulthood are persistent from teenage years, around 20% are described as ‘late-onset' disease, appearing for the first time in adulthood. The disease can be triggered by hormonal changes (including a change from one contraceptive to another), or it can be induced by certain nonhormonal medications, emotional stress, and various underlying diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome. In many cases acne becomes a chronic skin condition with undulating activity, including improvement and relapse phases, and is often experienced as a major psychological burden. It is, therefore, even more important to provide an effective as well as a safe and tolerable treatment. The spectrum of topical acne treatments has expanded substantially in recent years and various topical medications are available, ranging from azelaic acid, antibiotics, retinoids and benzoyl peroxide to several fixed combinations of these active compounds. The following case collection illustrates how 15% azelaic acid gel, as a well-established monotherapy, can be successfully employed to treat mild-to-moderate forms of adult female acne.

Sensitivity to change of the Dermatology Life Quality Index in adult females with facial acne vulgaris: a validation study

“…‘Acne tarda’ is predominantly characterized by a mild to moderate severity with many inflammatory lesions, frequently involving the lower third of the face, the so‐called ‘U‐zone’ . Approximately 20% women affected, report a ‘late‐onset acne’ which developed after the age of 25 years .…”

“…Approximately 20% women affected, report a ‘late‐onset acne’ which developed after the age of 25 years . However, the majority of adult female acne patients suffer from persistent (continuous from adolescence onwards) acne, making them a vulnerable population to the negative impact of their skin condition to quality of life (QoL) . Especially, acne tarda is associated with lower self‐esteem, anxiety in social interaction and stigmatization due to imperfect appearance which causes distress, predominantly in female adult patients resulting in a negative impact on QoL …”

The usefulness of a dermocosmetic containing Myrtus communis extract and azelaic acid for maintenance phase of adult female acne: Results from a randomized exploratory investigator‐blinded comparative study

“…In a split‐face clinical trial, a lotion containing Myrtus communis was shown to be effective and safe for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris 11 . Azelaic acid has been shown to be effective in treating and maintenance treatment of acne by reducing acne lesions, decreasing the amount of secreted sebum, as well as alleviating PIH 12–16 . The aim of our exploratory study was to evaluate the efficacy of the test product containing these two anti‐acne ingredients compared with a light moisturizing cream in adult females in acne maintenance phase.…”

Cross-Sectional Study Design and Data Analysis of the Effect of Chitin NanofibrilsLignin Micro/Nano Particles on Malaysia’s Subjects with Skin Disorders

“…Soon after, by a soft massage and the use of a light LED device, it has been possible to remove and modulate more easily both FFA and dead cells from clogged pores, increasing also the penetration of the emulsion's active ingredients [22]. An emulsion based on chitin-lignin micro/nanoparticles entrapping niacinamide [23][24][25][26], phosphatidylcholine [27,28] and azelaic acid [29], was applied together with a water solution of specific plant's active compounds, such as Chirthmum maritimum and the witch/hazel extracts [30]. The same home treatments and the use of the sunscreen are mandatory for all.…”