JALANDHAR PUNJAB, India—A new study published in The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed lactic acid improved skin texture, pigmentation and lighten scars caused by acne (2010;9(3):246-48). 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. Therefore, researchers evaluated the efficacy and safety of full strength pure lactic acid 92 percent (pH 2.0) chemical peel in superficial acne scarring in Indian skin. Seven patients, Fitzpatrick skin type IV-V, in age group 20 to 30 years with superficial acne scarring were enrolled in the study. Chemical peeling was done with lactic acid at an interval of two weeks to a maximum of four peels. Pre- and post-peel clinical photographs were taken at every session. Patients were followed every month for three months after the last peel to evaluate the effects.
At the end of three months, there was definite improvement in the texture, pigmentation and appearance of the treated skin, with lightening of scars. Significant improvement (greater than 75 percent clearance of lesions) occurred in one patient (14.28 percent), good improvement (51 percent to75 percent clearance) in three patients (42.84 percent), moderate improvement (26 percent to 50 percent clearance) in two patients (28.57 percent) and mild improvement (1 percent to 25 percent clearance) in one patient (14.28 percent).