Effects of benzoyl peroxide on lipogenesis in sebaceous glands using an animal model.
BACKGROUND
Benzoyl peroxide is the most widely used topical agent for acne since the 1960s. Concomitant treatment of benzoyl peroxide with oral, or topical antibiotics diminishes the multiplication of antibiotic-resistant strains of Propionibacteria acnes. Besides being antibacterial, the chemical also functions as a peeling agent, has comedolytic activity, reduces free fatty acid levels, and is touted to be sebosuppressive.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose was to determine the ability of topically applied benzoyl peroxide to suppress lipogenesis of the sebaceous glands.


METHODS
The data were obtained employing an animal model for human sebaceous glands, namely, the flank organs of female golden Syrian hamsters.


RESULTS
Our results reveal no inhibition of lipogenesis in sebaceous glands by topical application of benzoyl peroxide.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite many functions beneficial in acne therapy, benzoyl peroxide does not possess sebosuppressive capabilities. With the advent of water-soluble organic peroxides revealing similar antimicrobial activity to benzoyl peroxide, all therapeutic parameters (save for sebosuppression) will need to be assessed to weigh the benefits of these second-generation acne-fighting peroxides.
Burkhart
C G
CG
Department of Medicine, Medical College of Ohio at Toledo, OH, USA.
Butcher
C
C
Burkhart
C N
CN
Lehmann
P
P
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy; D000287:Administration, Topical; D000818:Animals; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006224:Cricetinae; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005260:Female; D008647:Mesocricetus; D012627:Sebaceous Glands / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism; D012629:Sebum / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D013739:Testosterone / Q000494:pharmacology
D013739:Testosterone; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide