Long‐term effect of azelaic acid peel on sebum production in acne

Seborrhea and the associated oily skin are undoubtedly the problem of women and men around the world. The pathogenesis of acne vulgaris involves excessive activity of sebaceous glands, as well as disturbances in the composition of sebum. The aim of the study was to assess the severity of seborrhea in a group of acne vulgaris patients and to determine the effect of a 20% azelaic acid solution on the activity of sebaceous glands. Twenty seven women, aged 19–25 years, underwent a series of six treatments with the application of a 20% solution of azelaic acid to the face. The mean values of sebum level showed a decreasing tendency. On the forehead, the results were as follows—195.5 before the treatment and 162.7 2 weeks after the last treatment. Measurements of the right cheek decreased from 175.3 to 141.3 The measurements taken 3 months after the study were 151.3 on the forehead and 138.9 on the cheek. Similarly, the values determining the total number of acne lesions and the severity of the disease according to the IGA scale also changed significantly. Chemical peel with 20% azelaic acid shows long‐term sebostatic action, which inhibits the formation of new acne lesions.