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Microneedling With Glycolic Acid or Trichloroacetic Acid for Atrophic Acne Scars
Sponsor: Kafrelsheikh University
Summary
Atrophic acne scars are depressed scars that can remain after acne has healed. Microneedling is a procedure that uses very small needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which may stimulate collagen production and improve scar appearance. Chemical peels, including glycolic acid and trichloroacetic acid, may also improve acne scars. This study compares three approaches for treating atrophic acne scars: microneedling followed by a 35% glycolic acid peel, microneedling followed by a 15% trichloroacetic acid peel, and microneedling alone. Sixty adults with atrophic acne scars are randomly assigned to one of the three groups. Participants receive a series of microneedling treatments at 2-week intervals. The study evaluates changes in scar severity, participant satisfaction, treatment-related pain, recovery time after treatment, and side effects. The findings may help identify whether adding either chemical peel to microneedling provides greater benefit than microneedling alone and whether one combination has a shorter recovery time or fewer side effects.
Official title: Which Is More Effective: Microneedling With 35% Glycolic Acid Peeling or Microneedling With 15% Trichloroacetic Acid Peeling in the Treatment of Atrophic Acne Scars? A Randomized Controlled Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2024-12-01
Completion Date
2026-07-01
Last Updated
2026-09-01
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Microneedling only
Microneedling of facial atrophic acne scars was performed using a Dermapen device after topical anesthetic application and skin cleansing. The needle penetration depth was 1.5 mm. Microneedling was performed at 2-week intervals according to the study treatment schedule.
Microneedling with Glycolic Acid 35% Peel
A 35% glycolic acid peel was applied immediately after microneedling to the acne-scar areas using a cotton-tipped applicator. The peel was neutralized after approximately 3 to 5 minutes, or earlier if frosting, burning, or irritation occurred.
Microneedling with Trichloroacetic Acid 15% Peel
A 15% trichloroacetic acid peel was applied immediately after microneedling to the acne-scar areas using a cotton-tipped applicator until an even white frosting endpoint was observed. Post-peel care included washing the skin with sterile saline.
Locations (1)
Faculty of Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University
Kafr ash Shaykh, Egypt