Medicinal Plants for Acne Vulgaris: An Evidence-Based Review of Treatments Promoted by Social Media

Abstract

Background: Acne vulgaris refers to a chronic inflammatory state of the pilosebaceous follicles that affects the majority of adolescents. Treatments encompass topical agents and systemic therapies. Nowadays, we encounter a growing tendency to use herbal remedies, which raises concerns about misinformation disseminated by digital platforms. Aim: This narrative review investigated herbal acne treatments recommended by virtual platforms (WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram), and gleaned medicinal plants from authoritative references. Methods: A literature search across international and Persian databases, including PubMed and Scopus, was implemented employing keywords and Boolean operators. Data synthesis highlighted evidence gaps and inconsistencies. Results: The review found different medicinal plants holding potential acne treatment properties, including tea tree oil, lavender, licorice, turmeric, and heartsease among others. Some demonstrated antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, or sebum-reducing effects in vitro or clinically. Others lacked strong evidence or clinical validation. Furthermore, combinations like tea tree and lavender oils showed lesion-decreasing effects. However, gaps remain in clinical research for a number of plants traditionally claimed to treat acne vulgaris. Conclusion: While digital platforms play an important role in spreading health-related information, they have promoted several remedies for acne vulgaris that have not been scientifically verified. Hence, cyberspace is not currently deemed a dependable source of treatment information for nonmedical experts.