Daijiworld Media Network - China

China, Dec 3: A recent study from China suggests that intradermal botulinum toxin A can significantly reduce post-acne facial redness, offering faster and more pronounced results than broadband light therapy. The single-center split-face study involved 30 adults with persistent facial erythema following inflammatory acne. Each participant had one cheek treated with a single botulinum toxin A injection, while the other cheek received three monthly broadband light sessions.

Over three months, investigators tracked redness scores, erythema index, colorimetric values, sebum secretion, skin hydration, and transepidermal water loss. They also recorded pain intensity and patient satisfaction. By the first month, cheeks treated with botulinum toxin A showed greater reductions in redness, erythema index, a* values, and sebum secretion compared to broadband light. Improvements in sebum levels continued at two and three months, while reductions in redness and color metrics remained higher for the injection side. Both treatments improved overall skin hydration and barrier function relative to baseline.

Although pain was higher with the intradermal injections, patient satisfaction remained comparable, and no serious adverse events were reported during the follow-up. The findings suggest that intradermal botulinum toxin A could be a promising single-session option for patients struggling with persistent redness and acne scars. Experts note, however, that the small sample size, single-center setup, and short follow-up period mean larger studies are needed before this approach can be widely recommended.