How Effective is Salicylic Acid Gel in Acne Treatment?


Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological problems, affecting approximately 9.4% of the population worldwide. Acne, which can occur in all age groups from adolescence to adulthood, is not limited to skin lesions; it also causes psychosocial problems such as anxiety, depression, and loss of self-confidence, significantly reducing quality of life.

Excessive sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, microbial colonization, and inflammation play a key role in acne development. While many medications have been developed for acne treatment, the side effects of these treatments pose a serious problem, especially for sensitive or easily irritated skin. Therefore, new-generation formulations that both control acne and support the skin barrier are needed.

In this article, we discuss the results of a 21-day clinical study evaluating the efficacy and safety of a specialized gel containing 2% salicylic acid, enriched with barrier-repairing and moisturizing ingredients.

Why Is Salicylic Acid Preferred for Acne Treatment?
Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), is a scientifically proven agent used for many years, particularly in acne treatment.

It penetrates oil follicles and unblocks them.

It dissolves keratinized debris and reduces comedone formation.

Thanks to its mild anti-inflammatory properties, it is effective on inflamed acne lesions such as papules and pustules.

However, classic salicylic acid products can occasionally cause dryness, redness, and irritation. Therefore, in newly developed formulations, salicylic acid is used in conjunction with moisturizers and barrier repair agents.

Purpose and Method of Study
The purpose of this clinical study was to examine the efficacy and safety of a gel containing 2% salicylic acid and enriched with niacinamide, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and three types of ceramides (EOP, NP, and AP).

Participants: 42 individuals aged 18–44 diagnosed with mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

Duration: 21 days, twice-daily use.

Evaluation: Sebum production, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), acne severity (IGA scale), user satisfaction, and side effects.

The study was conducted in accordance with CONSORT criteria under controlled environmental conditions, and ethics committee approval was obtained.

Results: What Changed After 21 Days of Use?

1. Sebum Production Significantly Decreased
Mean sebum level at baseline: 177.63 μg/cm²

By the end of the day: 135.62 μg/cm²

A 23.65% reduction was recorded.

This result demonstrates that the gel provides sustained oil control and reduces shine and comedone formation in acne-prone skin.

2. Increased Skin Moisture
Unlike the dryness seen in most acne treatments, this gel demonstrated moisturizing properties.

A 58.23% increase in moisture was observed immediately after the first application.

By the end of the day, moisture levels had increased by 40.5%.

This finding proves that the product can be used in acne treatment without causing dryness or irritation.

3. Strengthening the Skin Barrier (TEWL Results)
The impaired skin barrier, commonly seen in acne patients, was assessed by transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

A 49.26% reduction in TEWL was recorded in the first 6 hours after gel application.

This result demonstrates that the product strengthens the skin's protective barrier and increases its resistance to external factors.

4. Reduction in Acne Severity (IGA Scale)
Baseline: Average IGA score of 2.5 (mild to moderate acne).

Day 1: Average IGA score of 1.9.

This means there was a 23.81% reduction in acne severity.

Moreover, the first improvements were observed starting from day 2.

5. Participant Satisfaction
100% found the product comfortable and easy to apply.

95% stated that it was effective in oil control.

92% saw a significant improvement in acne severity.

90% said their skin felt smoother and healthier.

6. Safety and Side Effects
Only 5% of participants experienced mild itching.

No serious side effects such as dryness, erythema, or scaling were reported.

No participant had to discontinue treatment.

This result demonstrates that the product can be used safely even on sensitive skin.

Discussion
This study demonstrates that moisturizing and barrier-supporting gels containing salicylic acid offer a much more tolerable and sustainable solution compared to conventional acne treatments.

Sebum reduction: 23.65%

Hydration increase: 40.5%

TEWL reduction: 49.26%

Acne severity reduction: 23.81%

These figures demonstrate clinically significant results even with short-term use.

Treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids can reduce acne while increasing dryness. However, this gel offers a significant alternative for sensitive skin by simultaneously reducing acne and moisturizing.

Conclusion
The barrier repair gel containing 2% salicylic acid, used for 21 days, has proven to be a safe and effective option for acne treatment.

It controls sebum.

It increases moisture balance.

It strengthens the skin barrier.

It reduces acne severity.

Even on sensitive skin