Abstract

INTRODUCTION :  Acne vulgaris is a common dermatologic disorder caused by follicular epidermal hyperproliferation, excess se-bum production, inflammation, and Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes). The mangosteen fruit rind contains large amount of xantho- nes, which has high antimicrobial activity against C. acnes.

OBJECTIVES : To compare the efficacy and safety of mangosteen 1% extract gel versus benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 5% gel in the treat- ment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

METHODS : A total of 60 participants with mild to moderate acne or a rating of 2 or 3 in the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA)
for acne were randomized to receive either mangosteen 1% extract gel or BPO 5% gel applied on the face twice daily over an
8-week period. Primary outcomes measured in the study were clinical remission graded as “clear” or “almost clear” (rating of 0 or
1) based on the IGA and any adverse reaction.

RESULTS : At week 8, 73% (23/30) in the BPO group and 53% (16/30) in the mangosteen group achieved clinical remission, although the difference between the two groups were not statistically significant (P = 0.108). In the BPO group, 4% (1/27) had a weak reac-tion during the 2nd follow up, while in the mangosteen group all participants did not have any reactions; however, this was not statistically significant (P = 0.627).

CONCLUSION : Mangosteen 1% extract gel is a safe and effective alternative treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

KEYWORDS : acne vulgaris, mangosteen extract, benzoyl peroxide