Relationship between acne and use of cosmetics: Results of a questionnaire study in 216 Korean individuals

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: 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 216 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: Three most common factors believed to trigger or exacerbate acne were lack of sleep, high-glycemic-load foods, and cosmetics. Among the respondents, 62 (29.95%) said the use of cosmetics was associated with acne exacerbation. One hundred thirty-seven respondents with acne treatment failure history used more cosmetics compared with other group. Foundation use was 44.5% for treatmentrefractory patients and 28.6% for others, respectively (P\.05). The use of compacts, cushions, concealers, and double-cleansing was also higher in the treatmentrefractory group, which turned out to be statistically significant (P \.05). Conclusions: Our finding reveals a positive association between frequent usage of cosmetics and severity of acne. Regular cosmetic usage might be a causative factor for acne vulgaris. However, dermatologists occasionally overlook the importance of cosmetics, which may compromise the efficacy of acne treatment. Therefore, it is essential to aware patients that use of cosmetics can be a potential aggravating factor for their acne.