The Natural Acne Solution Backed by Science
Various cosmetic treatments for acne exist, including retinoids, topical antimicrobial agents, chemical peels, laser/light therapy, and hormonal agents. However, these treatments can be expensive and associated with adverse side effects.
A recent study published in the journal Pharmaceutics investigated the effectiveness of a plant-derived formula called FRO in combating Acne vulgaris, a common chronic skin disease. The researchers conducted antimicrobial assessments and in vitro analyses to determine the impact of FRO on the development of acne caused by Cutibacterium acnes (CA), the bacteria responsible for the condition.
The results revealed that FRO exhibited significant antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects against CA, supporting its potential as a safe and natural alternative for acne treatment in cosmetics.
Acne Meaning
Acne, or acne vulgaris, is a prevalent skin condition characterized by the blockage of hair follicles with sebum and dead skin cells. It affects more than 80% of adolescents and, while not life-threatening, can have a negative impact on mental well-being and lead to permanent skin pigmentation and scarring in severe cases.
The development of acne is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, with hormonal changes during puberty being a common trigger. These hormonal imbalances can increase sebum production and activate insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which play a role in acne formation.
Excessive sebum production is considered the initial step in acne development, as sebum-filled hair follicles provide a habitat for microorganisms like CA. While CA is normally present on the skin, the proliferation of a specific type, phylotype IA1, leads to inflammation and follicular pigmentation, commonly observed as pimples.
Acne Treatments
Various cosmetic treatments for acne exist, including retinoids, topical antimicrobial agents, chemical peels, laser/light therapy, and hormonal agents. However, these treatments can be expensive and associated with adverse side effects.
Previous studies have explored plant extracts as cost-effective and natural alternatives to conventional treatments. One such extract is derived from Rhus verniciflua (RV), a lacquer tree. However, the use of RV extract has been limited due to the presence of urushiol, an allergenic component.
About New Treatment for Acne
The current study focused on FRO, a plant-derived formula composed of a 1:1 ratio of fermented RV (FRV) and Orostachys japonicus (OJ) extracts. The researchers conducted in vitro analyses and antimicrobial characterization to evaluate the efficacy of FRO.
First, the FRO mixture was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to identify and quantify its constituents. The researchers also assessed the total phenolic content (TPC) of the mixture to identify compounds with potential antimicrobial properties.
To assess antimicrobial activity, preliminary in vitro assays were performed using disc diffusion susceptibility evaluation. CA (phylotype IA1) was cultured on an agar plate, and filter paper discs soaked in FRO were placed on the plate. The size of the zone of inhibition was measured to estimate the antimicrobial activity of FRO.
The researchers further evaluated the effects of FRO on CA-induced sebum production and DHT-associated androgen hormone spikes using oil-red staining and Western blot analysis, respectively. Additionally, they tested the ability of FRO to counteract the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which contribute to acne-related hyperpigmentation and scarring, using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) probes.
The results of the disc diffusion experiment demonstrated that FRO effectively inhibited the growth of CA, forming distinct inhibition zones of 13 mm when used at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. This inhibition of CA growth by FRO had a significant impact on suppressing the increase in sebum production associated with acne, potentially slowing down or even reversing the onset of acne.
Analysis of FRO revealed a high concentration of phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, and fisetin. On average, every gram of FRO contained approximately 118.2 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAEs) of total phenolic compounds (TPCs).
Furthermore, FRO exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects by reducing cell inflammation caused by CA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the release of cytokines. This reduction in ROS production over an extended period could potentially lead to a decrease in hyperpigmentation and scarring associated with acne.
Despite the availability of dermatological treatments for acne, they are often costly and can have unwanted side effects.
The findings of this study highlight the antimicrobial properties of FRO against the acne-causing bacterium, CA. This suggests that FRO serves as a natural, non-toxic, and cost-effective alternative to conventional acne therapy. Additionally, FRO demonstrated its efficacy in reducing sebum production and regulating hormone expression in vitro, indicating its potential for both treating and preventing acne.
Previous clinical trials involving FRO-enhanced face toners and lotions have shown significant improvements in skin elasticity and moisture levels compared to control groups within just six weeks. Although those trials did not specifically evaluate acne in a controlled in vitro setting, the current study’s findings support and validate their results.
Taken together, these results provide support for the future utilization of FRO in cosmetic therapy, addressing acne concerns and enhancing overall skin health.
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