Role of cleansers in the management of acne: Results of an Italian survey in 786 patients

• Published in: The Journal of dermatological treatment Vol. 27; no. 5; pp. 439 - 442
• Main Authors: Veraldi, Stefano, Barbareschi, Mauro, Micali, Giuseppe, Skroza, Nevena, Guanziroli, Elena, Schianchi, Rossana, Tedeschi, Aurora
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Taylor & Francis 01-10-2016
• Subjects: Acne; Acne Vulgaris - therapy; Administration, Topical; Adult; cleansers; Detergents - therapeutic use; Female; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Italy; Male; moisturizers; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult; moisturizers; cleansers; Acne
• ISSN: 0954-6634; 1471-1753
• DOI: 10.3109/09546634.2015.1133880

Background: Modern therapy of acne is based also on moisturizers, cleansers and sunscreens. However, a few studies have been published on cleansers, and never in Italy. Objective: We decided to carry out an epidemiological study on the knowledge, beliefs and perceptions of acne patients regarding cleansers. Methods: The survey has been carried out in Italy in 2013-2014. A group of patients with acne completed a questionnaire which included 10 questions. Results: One hundred and eighteen dermatologists and 786 evaluable acne patients attended the survey. Approximately 70% of patients use a specific anti-acne cleanser. This cleanser is suggested in 57% of cases by a dermatologist. The patients buy this cleanser at the pharmacy (77% of cases). More than 62% of patients are satisfied about this cleanser. More than 66% of patients use the cleanser twice daily. The length of washing is less than one minute in 48% of patients. More than 66% of patients believe that the cleanser has a therapeutical role. Conclusion: The results of this survey cannot be compared with other studies because of the lack of similar studies about this topic. These results suggest that a sample of Italian acne patients consider cleansers as an important adjuvant treatment in acne.