Comparative Efficacy of Glycolic Acid VS Salicylic Acid Peel in Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of glycolic acid versus salicylic acid chemical peels in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

Study Design: A prospective randomized comparative study.
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Dermatology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, from June 2023 to May 2024.

Methods: A total of 120 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris were enrolled and randomly divided into two equal groups. Group A received glycolic acid peel, while Group B received salicylic acid peel. Six peeling sessions were performed at two-week intervals. Total lesion count and Global Acne Grading System score were recorded at baseline and follow-up visits. Treatment response and adverse effects were also assessed.

Results: Both groups showed significant reduction in total lesion count and acne severity scores by week 12. Mean lesion count decreased from 29.4 ± 6.5 to 8.5 ± 3.9 in the glycolic acid group and from 30.1 ± 6.2 to 6.7 ± 3.5 in the salicylic acid group. Mean percentage reduction was higher with salicylic acid than glycolic acid. Excellent response was observed in 60.0% patients in the salicylic acid group and 46.7% in the glycolic acid group. Adverse effects were mild and transient.

Conclusion: Both peels were effective and safe, but salicylic acid showed faster and slightly superior clinical improvement in mild to moderate acne vulgaris.