Tolerability and effectiveness of a dermocosmetic product containing Silybum marianum fruit extract in adolescents and young adults with acne-prone skin: An international, phase IV, longitudinal study

Abstract

Background: Dermocosmetic products are often used to maintain or enhance the tolerance and effectiveness of medical anti-acne therapies. Recent discoveries about the pathophysiology of acne-prone skin indicate that skincare products may help maintain homeostasis around the sebaceous gland progenitor cells, thereby preventing microcomedone formation. Aims: To evaluate the tolerance and effectiveness of a dermocosmetic product containing Silybum marianum fruit extract (SMFE) in adolescents and young adults with acne-prone skin. Patients/Methods: This real-life, international, observational, multicenter study was conducted in patients aged 12–25 years with mild-to-moderate acne. Patients (N = 4230) used the product twice daily for 8–12 weeks, either alone before (“initial group”) or after an anti-acne therapy (“maintenance group”), or in association with their usual prescribed anti-acne therapies (“association group”). The tolerance, effectiveness, and cosmetic properties of the product were assessed. Patient quality of life (QoL) was also evaluated. Results: Dermatologists rated the tolerance of the product as “good” or “very good” in about 95% of the patients and the effectiveness of the product as “effective” or “highly effective” in about 80% of the patients, with a significant reduction in the mean global evaluation of acne (GEA) grade (−36% ± 39%, p < 0.0001) at study end. The QoL of most patients (80%) improved by the end of the study, and the majority (79% to 94%) appreciated the cosmetic properties of the product. Overall, the product was a clinical success in >84% of patients. Conclusions: This dermocosmetic product can be used by adolescents and young adults with acne-prone skin to limit the initial or chronic use of medical anti-acne therapies.