Efficacy of Combining Postbiotic Formulation with Microneedling for Acne

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A recent study evaluated the efficacy of a postbiotic formulation, EVE-CHARM antiacne lotion, combined with microneedling for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris. The results suggest that this combination therapy effectively reduces acne lesions, regulates skin microbiota, and restores the skin barrier, providing a promising alternative to traditional acne treatments.¹

“The current results demonstrated this combination treatment can manage skin lesions, reduce sebaceous gland secretion, and alleviate inflammation, which might be ascribed to the beneficial effects of postbiotics on the balance of the skin microbiota and the integrity of the skin barrier,” researchers stated. “Therefore, EVE-CHARM anti-acne lotion represents a valuable nonpharmacological intervention that offers an innovative therapeutic alternative for the prevention and treatment of acne vulgaris.”

Background

Acne vulgaris arises from a complex interplay of sebum overproduction, follicular hyperkeratinization, microbiota dysbiosis, and inflammation.² Current treatments, including topical and oral medications, often exhibit limited efficacy and potential adverse effects such as skin irritation and drug resistance.³ Recent advancements highlight the critical role of skin microbiota in acne development, making microbiota-targeted therapies a promising alternative.⁴ The study explored the therapeutic potential of EVE-CHARM antiacne lotion, a postbiotic formulation, combined with microneedling to enhance delivery and therapeutic outcomes.¹

Methods

Twenty healthy adults aged 22 to 30 years diagnosed with Grade I–III acne vulgaris were enrolled in the study. Researchers stated patients with underlying medical conditions, recent cosmetic treatments, or pregnancy were excluded.

The treatment involved microneedling with 0.5 to 1.0 mm needles, followed by the application of EVE-CHARM lotion. The procedure aimed to improve drug penetration and stimulate skin repair mechanisms.Efficacy was evaluated using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) and the Symptom Score Reduction Index (SSRI). VISIA imaging assessed skin lesions, inflammation, sebaceous secretion, and microbiota indicators. Adverse events and patient satisfaction were documented.

Results

According to the study, the cohort included 17 women and 3 men (mean age 25.28 ± 2.46). Among the participants, 45% had Grade II acne, while 55% had Grade III acne.

Following treatment, researchers reported GAGS scores significantly decreased. SSRI analysis showed moderate to excellent improvement in 100% of patients. Representative cases demonstrated marked reductions in acne lesions, sebum production, and inflammation, the study stated. VISIA analysis revealed decreased porphyrin levels, suggesting restoration of microbiota balance and reduced C. acnes proliferation. Researchers noted enhanced skin barrier integrity and diminished inflammation were observed.

High satisfaction rates were reported, with an average score of 4.26 ± 0.99 on a 5-point scale. Adverse effects were minimal, according to the study, including transient erythema and mild discomfort.

Discussion and Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of EVE-CHARM antiacne lotion combined with microneedling as an effective treatment for acne vulgaris. The postbiotic formulation targets skin microbiota dysbiosis, offering anti-inflammatory and barrier-restoring benefits. Microneedling enhances drug delivery and stimulates repair mechanisms. Researchers stated the absence of severe adverse events underscores the safety of this approach, although the small sample size and single-center design warrant further studies to validate these findings across diverse populations.

The combination of EVE-CHARM antiacne lotion and microneedling presents a novel, nonpharmacological option for managing mild to moderate acne vulgaris. By addressing underlying microbiota dysbiosis and skin barrier integrity, researchers stated this therapy offers a promising alternative to conventional treatments. They suggested that future research should focus on larger, multicenter trials to corroborate these results.

References

1. Li Z, Li P, Xu Y, et al. Efficacy of a postbiotic formulation combined with microneedling for mild to moderate acne: A self-control study. JCosmet Dermatol. Published online December 2, 2024. doi:10.1111/jocd.16703
2. Moradi Tuchayi S, Makrantonaki E, Ganceviciene R, et al. Acne vulgaris. Nat Rev Dis Primers.2015;1:15029. Published 2015 Sep 17. doi:10.1038/nrdp.2015.29
3. Otlewska A, Baran W, Batycka-Baran A. Adverse events related to topical drug treatments for acne vulgaris. Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2020;19(4):513-521. doi:10.1080/14740338.2020.1757646
4. Chen P, He G, Qian J, et al. Potential role of the skin microbiota in Inflammatory skin diseases. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20(2):400-409. doi:10.1111/jocd.13538