Evaluation of a Novel Solubilized BPO Gel: A Pooled Analysis From Three Randomized Investigator-Blind Trials

Presented by James Q Del Rosso, DO
Presentations From The Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference

Introduction

The author found many commercially available benzoyl peroxide treatments have had inconsistent effectiveness because benzoyl peroxide has been identified as a poorly soluble ingredient. This solubility problem caused a variance in particle size and decreased follicular penetration of the ingredient. As a result, this study was conducted comparing treatment with a new solubilized formulation of benzoyl peroxide. This new solubilized formulation was used to help optimize the bioavailability of benzoyl peroxide and promote the penetration of benzoyl peroxide into the follicles.

Methods

This study examined 112 patients between the ages of 11-45 years old. All of the patients had mild to moderate acne as determined by lesion count and were predominately Fitzpatrick skin type III. Participants were treated with either the solubized 5% benzoyl peroxide gel, a combination of solubized 5% benzoyl peroxide gel with 2% salicylic acid toner and cleanser, or a prescription benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin combination gel. Patients applied each treatment 1-2 times per day for 2-4 weeks. The patients were then evaluated in weekly intervals.

Results

The study showed the solubized 5% benzoyl peroxide treatment was more effective than the benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin product. The solubized 5% benzoyl peroxide gel used either alone or as part of a three part treatment with salicylic acid reduced non-inflammatory lesion count better than the benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin and was equally effective in reducing the inflammatory lesion count. This new formulation of benzoyl peroxide proved to achieve rapid improvements in lesion counts. Furthermore, this product offered favorable tolerability and patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

This study showed the formulation of solubized 5% benzoyl peroxide was a necessary step in skin care. The study author concluded that this advance could create many improved products that work more efficiently to improve skin and the treatment of acne.

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