Lactic acid peeling in superficial acne scarring in Indian skin.
BACKGROUND
Chemical peeling with both alpha and beta hydroxy acids has been used to improve acne scarring with pigmentation. Lactic acid, a mild alpha hydroxy acid, has been used in the treatment of various dermatological indications but no study is reported in acne scarring with pigmentation.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of full strength pure lactic acid 92% (pH 2.0) chemical peel in superficial acne scarring in Indian skin.


METHODS
Seven patients, Fitzpatrick skin type IV-V, in age group 20-30 years with superficial acne scarring were enrolled in the study. Chemical peeling was done with lactic acid at an interval of 2 weeks to a maximum of four peels. Pre- and post-peel clinical photographs were taken at every session. Patients were followed every month for 3 months after the last peel to evaluate the effects.


RESULTS
At the end of 3 months, there was definite improvement in the texture, pigmentation, and appearance of the treated skin, with lightening of scars. Significant improvement (greater than 75% clearance of lesions) occurred in one patient (14.28%), good improvement (51-75% clearance) in three patients (42.84%), moderate improvement (26-50% clearance) in two patients (28.57%), and mild improvement (1-25% clearance) in one patient (14.28%).
Sachdeva
Silonie
S
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000328:Adult; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D007641:Keratolytic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D019344:Lactic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010865:Pilot Projects
D007641:Keratolytic Agents; D019344:Lactic Acid