Topical oxymetazoline hydrochloride reduces post-acne erythema: Study

A new study by Chanudda Washrawirul and team shows that the topical oxymetazoline hydrochloride (OxH) 0.05% solution reduced post-acne erythema (PAE) without a rebound effect and was efficient, well-tolerated, and safe. The findings of this study were published in the Journal of Dermatology.

One of the most frequent aftereffects of acne inflammation is post-acne erythema. Unfortunately, the lack of effective topical therapies means that treating PAE is still difficult. In order to assess the effectiveness and safety of topical oxymetazoline hydrochloride 0.05% solution for PAE, this study was carried out.

This study was a split-face, randomized, placebo-controlled experiment that was conducted in Bangkok, Thailand, between December 2021 and March 2022, with participants and researchers both blinded. Eligible participants were healthy people between the ages of 18 and 45 with mild to severe PAE on both sides of the face, as determined by the Clinician's Erythema Assessment (CEA). Following randomization, each subject used OxH twice daily for 12 weeks on one side of their faces and a placebo on the other. The main result was the number of PAE lesions. Erythema index, clinical response rate at week 12 (defined as "clear," "almost clear," or "at least two-grade improvement" by CEA), and patient satisfaction ratings were the secondary objectives.