A Comparative Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy Of 12% Glycolic Acid V/S 10% Azelaic Acid in the Treatment of Post Acne Hyperpigmentation

Background: Acne vulgaris is the most common condition encountered in dermatologic practice. Recent literature suggests racial and ethnic difference in the sequelae of acne complications with post acne hyperpigmentation topping the list. Therapeutic goals include promoting degradation of melanosomes and inhibiting their formation. Thus it is a challenge to treat patients of darker skin and find an agent to reduce hyperpigmentation without causing undesirable lightening of surrounding normal skin. A right balance of topical and repetitive superficial resurfacing procedures must be undertaken in addition to ultraviolet protection measures. Objectives: To compare the safety and efficacy of 10% azelaic acid v/s 12 % glycolic acid in the treatment of post acne hyperpigmentation. Materials and Methods: A prospective study including 30 patients with post acne hyperpigmentation attending OPD at Fr Muller Medical College between September 2014 To March 2015 were included. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to commencement of study. Collected data was analysed by frequency, percentage and chi square test Conclusions: Hyperpigmentation reaction is thought to be a default pathophysiological response of dark skin to cutaneous injury . For patients the lingering effects of PIH is more disturbing than the actual acne itself, hence adjunctive treatment like microdermabrasion or chemical peels can address this issue and cosmetically give better results.