Development of Novel Topical Anti-Acne Cream Containing Postbiotics for Mild-to-Moderate Acne: An Observational Study to Evaluate Its Efficacy

BACKGROUND: Acne is one of the most common skin diseases in adolescents and results in high healthcare costs and psychological burdens severely affecting individuals. Treatments other than contraceptives, antibiotics, and photodynamic therapies are needed to prevent and/or improve acne's onset and evolution. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a fermentation lysate of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum VHProbi(®) V22 in ameliorating acne. METHODS: An anti-acne skincare cream containing fermentation culture lysate was applied to subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris for 4 weeks. The assessments were evaluated based on instrumental measurements using Visia(®)-CR and CK-MPA(®) systems. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The anti-acne skincare cream was found to be safe and not cause any irritation. Significant improvements in the acne lesion proportion (P < 0.01), transepidermal water loss (P < 0.001), and sebum secretion (P < 0.05) were observed in comparison to the baseline in the subjects. The analysis of the statistical data after 4 weeks of treatment showed a positive decrease in skin tone, stratum corneum hydration, and superficial pH without statistical significance, compared with the baseline. The results of this study suggest that the topical application of the anti-acne skincare cream was effective and safe in subjects with mild-to-moderate acne and could represent an optional complement for acne treatments.