The Role of Dermocosmetics in Acne Management: Asian Perspective

Acne vulgaris affects a majority of individuals in all world regions, including Asia. It is increasingly recognized to affect the trunk, in addition to the face, although truncal acne is likely to be both under-diagnosed and under-treated. In addition, an increasing population of adult females are seeking treatment for acne, which is often somewhat milder than that seen in adolescents and may be localized along the jawline. In Asia, acne is also common in individuals with sensitive skin, who may have a more difficult time tolerating medical therapies. Dermocosmetics, over-the-counter products with active ingredients, have beneficial effects in the management of acne, both when used alone in milder forms of acne or for maintenance of anti-acne effects and when used as an adjunct to medical regimens to improve tolerability and/or enhance efficacy. This publication, which represents a consensus of dermatologists from eight countries including seven Asian countries, reviews the reported benefits of dermocosmetics and provides recommendations to healthcare providers for ways to incorporate these products into routine practice.