The purpose of this present research was to compare the application of topical agent and invasive agent for treatment of facial acne. A total of 124 patients with mild to moderate acne entered this prospective, single-blind study comparing topical (benzoyl peroxide 5%) with invasive treatment (microneedling). There were 60 female and 64 male subjects in the present research. Reductions in the mean number of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions were compared using Student's t-test, as were the mean

more »

... grades for skin tolerability. The incidence of self reported adverse effects were compared using the x' test. A significant difference was noted in baseline assessment of facial erythema between the two groups (P<0.05), being greater in the microneedling group. Comparisons between the two groups showed that microneedling was significantly better than at one month (P<0.05), however benzoyl peroxide 5% was better at two months (P< 0.001), and three months (P<0.001). Microneedling was effective in removing the comedones with immediate effectiveness but the effects were not long lasting with possibility of scar formation when compared to benzoyl peroxide, who didn't have relapses in the treatment and were cost effective as well.