OBSERVATION ON THE CURATIVE EFFECT OF SUPRAMOLECULAR SALICYLIC ACID COMBINED WITH PHOTON SKIN REJUVENATION THERAPY ON ACNE SKIN IN ATHLETES

Abstract

Acne is a prevalent skin condition that affects a significant proportion of the global population, including athletes who are exposed to sweat, friction, and various environmental stressors. The condition often leads to both physical and psychological distress, particularly in athletes who rely on their appearance and skin health for performance and public image. While traditional treatment options, such as topical and oral medications, are available, their effectiveness may be limited, and they may result in adverse effects, such as skin dryness or irritation. As such, alternative approaches to provide safe and effective acne treatment are necessary, particularly for athletes with unique skin care needs. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of combining supramolecular salicylic acid (SSA) with photon skin rejuvenation therapy (PSRT) for treating acne-prone skin in athletes. SSA is a novel form of salicylic acid that improves solubility and stability, making it a promising candidate for acne treatment. PSRT is a non-invasive therapy that utilizes different wavelengths of light to enhance skin texture and decrease acne severity, which is beneficial for athletes who need quick recovery and minimal downtime. The study included 60 athletes with mild to moderate acne, who were split into two groups: a treatment group that received SSA and PSRT and a control group that only received PSRT. The treatment group received SSA 2% gel twice daily for eight weeks, in addition to twice-weekly PSRT sessions for six weeks. The control group only received twice-weekly PSRT sessions for six weeks. The study evaluated acne severity and skin texture at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks, using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) and the Skin Texture Analysis System (STAS). The results indicated that the treatment group experienced a significant improvement in acne severity and skin texture compared to the control group. The mean GAGS scores decreased from 15.2 to 8.2 in the treatment group, while the mean GAGS scores decreased from 15.1 to 11.9 in the control group. The mean STAS scores improved from 1.4 to 2.7 in the treatment group, while the mean STAS scores improved from 1.4 to 1.9 in the control group. Furthermore, the combination of SSA and PSRT was well-tolerated and safe, with no reported adverse effects. In conclusion, this study suggests that combining SSA and PSRT is a safe and effective approach for treating acne-prone skin in athletes, providing a potential novel alternative for acne treatment. This method could support faster recovery times, improve skin appearance, and be integrated into athletic skin care regimens. However, further studies are necessary to validate these findings and determine the optimal treatment dosage and duration.