Acne and use of cosmetics: Results of questionnaire study

초록

Background: Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatologic diseases, and it is known that various factors are related. In particular, although the use of cosmetics is thought to be associated with acne, few studies have been conducted up to date. Objective: This study was designed to survey the perception regarding acne causation and exacerbating factors, including cosmetic exposure, as well as acne treatment history. Methods and materials: A total of 539 patients with acne vulgaris, who visited for treatment at local dermatologic clinic and college hospital in Korea, were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding the epidemiology, clinical features, and perception of acne. Results: Among the respondents, 38.1% of patients who failed treatment answered that the condition of their acne was worsened by the continued use of cosmetics, which was significantly higher than 26.3% of the surveyed treatment-naive patients (P ˂ .05). In this relation, double cleansing (cleansing twice using oil and water-based cleanser) and the number of cosmetics in use were also noted in higher numbers than in the treatment-failure patients. As noted, the liquid-type foundation and concealer were frequently used in this group. Besides, it was noted that the patients who experienced worsening of their condition which was caused by cosmetics were higher in postadolescent acne patients than in adolescent acne patients surveyed. Conclusion: This study showed that overall dermatologists should consider advising about cosmetic use to acne patients along with medical treatment options for the patients with acne.