Acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne, is one of the most prevalent skin conditions affecting people worldwide. It is particularly common during adolescence but can persist into adulthood, with many individuals struggling with acne-related skin issues well into their 20s, 30s, and beyond. Recent research highlights innovative treatment options, such as hydrogen purification and the use of cosmetic acids, offering new hope for people suffering from acne.
This article explores two key studies by researchers Karolina Chilicka and her colleagues. These studies provide insights into how acne forms, the impact it has on individuals, and how hydrogen purification and cosmetic acids can significantly improve skin health.
What is Acne and Why Does It Appear?
Acne is a chronic skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This blockage leads to the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and sometimes deeper, more painful cysts. Acne is most common during adolescence due to hormonal changes that increase sebum production, but it can also be triggered by factors like genetics, diet, stress, and even certain medications.
According to the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS), acne is categorized by its severity, ranging from mild (few comedones and pimples) to severe (widespread inflammatory lesions and cysts). Acne not only affects the skin’s appearance but can also significantly impact a person’s emotional and psychological well-being.
The Benefits of Hydrogen Purification for Acne
Hydrogen purification is a relatively new treatment in cosmetology, where alkaline water, rich in hydrogen ions, is used to cleanse the skin. The process reduces oiliness and clears clogged pores, which are the main contributors to acne. In a 2021 study led by Chilicka and colleagues, researchers examined the effectiveness of hydrogen purification in reducing acne symptoms in women aged 20–23.
The study involved 30 women with mild to moderate acne who underwent four sessions of hydrogen purification over a two-week period. The results were promising:
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Sebum Reduction: Sebum, the oily substance that clogs pores, was reduced significantly in participants. Before treatment, the sebum levels between the eyebrows averaged 205.87 μg/cm². After four sessions, this dropped to 141.90 μg/cm², marking a nearly 31% reduction.
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Increased Skin Moisture: Acne-prone skin often suffers from an imbalance in moisture. The study found a notable increase in skin hydration after treatment, with moisture levels around the nose increasing from 35.4 g/m² to 49.28 g/m².
This demonstrates that hydrogen purification can effectively reduce the amount of oil on the skin’s surface while improving overall skin hydration, creating a healthier environment for acne-prone skin to heal.
The Power of Cosmetic Acids in Acne Treatment
Cosmetic acids have been used in dermatology for many years due to their exfoliating properties, which help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and promote skin renewal. These acids include lactic, salicylic, ferulic, and pyruvic acids, among others, and they are particularly beneficial for people with acne-prone skin.
In a 2022 study by Chilicka and her team, they compared the effectiveness of hydrogen purification alone versus hydrogen purification combined with cosmetic acids in treating acne. The study included 24 women aged 19–21, divided into two groups. Group A received only hydrogen purification, while Group B received hydrogen purification followed by a mix of cosmetic acids.
The results highlighted the benefits of combining these treatments:
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Improved Acne Severity: Both treatments led to a reduction in acne severity, but Group B, which received the cosmetic acid treatment, showed better results. Acne severity, measured using the Global Acne Grading System, decreased significantly. For instance, in Group B, participants saw a more dramatic improvement, with acne severity scores dropping by over 60%.
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Sebum Reduction: Group B also experienced a greater reduction in sebum levels compared to Group A. Sebum levels on the forehead, for example, decreased by 40% in Group B, compared to a 31% reduction in Group A.
The combination of hydrogen purification and cosmetic acids works by deeply cleaning the skin, removing excess oil, and exfoliating dead skin cells, which helps prevent future breakouts.
Why These Treatments Matter
Both hydrogen purification and cosmetic acids are non-invasive treatments with minimal side effects, making them attractive options for people looking for alternatives to more aggressive acne treatments like antibiotics or hormonal therapies. These treatments not only improve skin appearance but also address the underlying causes of acne by reducing oil production, unclogging pores, and restoring skin moisture balance.
The results of these studies are particularly encouraging for those who have struggled with acne for years. With over 80% of teenagers and up to 40% of adults experiencing acne at some point, effective and safe treatments are essential.
Conclusion
Acne vulgaris can be a persistent and frustrating condition, but recent advancements in cosmetology offer promising new solutions. Hydrogen purification, with its ability to cleanse and hydrate the skin, combined with the powerful exfoliating action of cosmetic acids, can significantly improve skin condition for those struggling with acne.
The studies by Chilicka and her team demonstrate the real-world benefits of these treatments, with reductions in sebum production, increased moisture levels, and a clear improvement in acne severity. These findings provide hope for individuals seeking effective, safe, and accessible treatments for acne.
For anyone dealing with acne, it is essential to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best course of treatment, especially when considering combining therapies for optimal results.
References:
- Chilicka, K., Rogowska, A.M., & Szyguła, R. (2021). Effects of Topical Hydrogen Purification on Skin Parameters and Acne Vulgaris in Adult Women. Healthcare, 9(144). doi:10.3390/healthcare9020144.
- Chilicka, K., Rusztowicz, M., Rogowska, A.M., Szyguła, R., Asanova, B., & Nowicka, D. (2022). Efficacy of Hydrogen Purification and Cosmetic Acids in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Preliminary Report. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(21), 6269. doi:10..