Hispanics are the fastest-growing population in the United States, and acne is reported as the most common dermatologic diagnosis seen within the population. In one study of women aged 10-70 with acne (The study was conducted at a hospital-based dermatology practice in New York City), acne was more common in Hispanics (32%) than Caucasians (24%).
New research is studying how exactly acne affects the Hispanic population. Research shows that in Hispanics, the most difficult part of acne treatment isn’t the active lesion, but the brown spots and exaggerated scars that may follow acne. These post-acne spots and scars are best prevented by early intervention using effective anti-acne treatment.
As with many other acne patients, many Hispanics are prone to dryness and irritation as a result of treatment. Excessive irritation can lead to further inflammation and post-acne brown spots, too. To increase the chance for success, it’s important to start treatment with creams that that limit skin irritation — this allows gradual improvement without hurting treatment commitment. Some physicians have concerns with the use of retinoids, Differin (Adapalene) and prescription retinoic acid due to their potential to cause severe skin irritation and in turn, can lead to more brown spots.
A new study looks at the treatment of moderate to severe acne in the Hispanic population. In this study, Hispanic patients with acne were treated by two different concentrations of benzoyl peroxide based topical gel. (BP 2.5%/Clindamycin and BP3.75%/clindamycin). Although acne was graded as moderate to severe, the results showed significant improvement in acne with both percentages AND with minimal side effects or skin irritation. None of the patients in this specific study experienced significant skin irritation. This study pinpoints the effectiveness of topical treatment for acne in Hispanics with moderate to severe acne and emphasizes the point that good topical treatment has a role in all acne patients, including patients with moderate and severe acne.
Benzoyl peroxide-based treatment can be affordable and is a great start to any acne treatment. If a person gets the right topical medications (With concentrations that match her/his skin type and severity), significant improvement in acne can be achieved without the need for expensive office visits and oral medications!
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