ACNE is a dermatological disease that affects the hair follicles of the skin associated with a sebaceous gland. Lesions caused by acne can affect up to 95% of people throughout their lives and, generally, this problem starts in adolescence, often persisting or starting during adulthood.
Acne lesions can be non-inflammatory and inflammatory. There are a variety of treatments for acne breakouts, including medications, over-the-counter products, and procedures such as peels and laser therapy. In recent times, there has been a growing interest in the use of natural skin health products such as vitamin C, other antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. One agent that has shown promise in reducing acne lesions is dexpanthenol, an analogue of pantothenic acid, also called vitamin B5.
What is pantothenic acid?
Pantothenic acid is naturally produced in cells and tissues, but is specifically present in coenzyme A, a compound that plays a role in regulating the skin barrier. This means it can help the skin’s barrier hold in moisture and act against harmful elements like pathogens.
With that in mind, there is currently a well-known product called Bepantol, which is a topical medication that has dexpanthenol, or pro-vitamin B5, as an active ingredient, in addition to niacinamide, Argan oil and glycerin in some variations of the product. It can be found in cream, gel, spray or lotion form.
Although Bepantol does not treat skin problems, this product can help improve the appearance of acne spots.
The use of dexpanthenol is predominant in the field of Dermatology. A study published in the journal Dermatology and Therapy proved that dexpanthenol helps to reduce acne-related spots on the face and minimize this type of skin injury. However, oily skin or skin with active acne needs to be carefully evaluated by a dermatologist, as more oily formulations of Bepantol may end up worsening the condition.
Another study published in the journal Pediatric Dermatology also suggested that a cream containing dexpanthenol may be useful in controlling the mucocutaneous side effects that occur during isotretinoin therapy, which is often used as a treatment for acne.
Topical dexpanthenol also acts as a moisturizer, helping to improve stratum corneum hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss, and maintain skin softness and elasticity. Its effects are beneficial in therapies for burns, in different dermatoses and in the treatment of scars, such as those caused by acne lesions. Adjunctive skin care with dexpanthenol significantly improves symptoms of skin irritation such as dryness, roughness, scaling and erythema over 3 to 4 weeks.
How should Bepantol be used?
Bepanthol should be applied directly to clean skin, 1 or 2 times a day, or as directed by a physician. In general, it is a product that does not cause pain when it comes into contact with irritated or inflamed skin.
Adverse effects
It is usually well tolerated, but it can cause unwanted adverse effects, although in rare cases, depending on the sensitivity of each patient’s skin. In addition, there are no reports of problems occurring due to interruption of treatment.
Bepantol can be used by pregnant women, as long as it is guided by the doctor. As for elderly patients and children, there are no restrictions on the use of the product.
Even if a person is not prone to acne, they can benefit from using products with dexpanthenol, or pantothenic acid, for a number of other reasons, for example, not only to moisturize, but also to maintain the elasticity of the skin. In addition, it is also worth taking oral supplements containing pantothenic acid, as it helps to reduce the number of acne spots.
Inflammation causes the sebaceous glands in the skin to become more active, allowing acne-causing bacteria to proliferate. However, although the exact mechanism of pantothenic acid is still not fully understood, its benefits for acne treatment may be associated with its anti-inflammatory and skin softening properties.
Tips to prevent acne breakouts
It’s important to keep your face clean., washing twice a day to remove impurities, dead skin cells and extra oil. However, washing your face excessively is not recommended as it can do more harm than good. Wash with warm, not hot, water using a mild facial cleanser.
Certain acne treatment products contain ingredients that dry out the skin.. So, another tip is to use moisturizers that minimize dryness and skin peeling. But pay attention if the product is “non-comedogenic”, including Bepantol applies to this feature.
Use makeup sparingly. After using, always wash your face at the end of the day, performing the proper removal procedure and total skin hygiene. If possible, opt for oil-free cosmetics, without the addition of dyes and chemicals.
Avoid exposure to sunlight. The sun’s ultraviolet rays increase redness and inflammation, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Limit the time you spend in the sun, especially between 10 am and 4 pm. Try to wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt and a wide-brimmed hat. Use sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, opting for broad-spectrum sunscreens with 6% zinc oxide or higher and SPF 30 or higher.
Changing your diet is also important. to prevent the recurrence of acne, it is necessary to avoid chocolate, spicy foods, fast food, foods with a high glycemic index and dairy products. Additionally, stress is associated with the severity of pimples and acne. So manage stress to control acne and prevent disfigurement.
If in doubt, consult a dermatologist to learn more about the effects of Bepantol for acne and whether you need further treatments to prevent or treat this condition.
References:
BEPANTHOL: dexpanthenol. [Bula]. Rio de Janeiro: Roche Products, 2013.
EBNER, F. et al. Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatologyv. 3, n. 6, p. 427-433. 2002.
HANCOCK, O. Can Pantothenic Acid Help Fight Acne?. Shape. 2021. Available at: https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/beauty-style/pantothenic-acid-acne-skin-care
ROMITI, R.; ROMITI, N. Dexpanthenol cream significantly improves mucocutaneous side effects associated with isotretinoin therapy. Pediatric Dermatologyv. 19, n. 4, p. 368-371. 2002.
SANVICTORES, T.; CHAUHAN, S. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid). National Library of Medicine. StatPearls. Last update: 12 Oct. 2022.
WEBMD. 10 Tips for Preventing Acne. 2022. Disponível em: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/10-tips-for-preventing-pimples YANG, M. et al. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of a Novel Pantothenic Acid-Based Dietary Supplement in Subjects with Mild to Moderate Facial Acne. Dermatology and Therapyv. 4, n. 1, p. 93-101. 2014.
Source: blogdasaude.com.br
