Investigating the Influence of 0.75% Ethanol Extract Gel from “Kaempferia galanga L Rhizoma” on Mild and Moderate Acne Vulgaris Among High School Students

Background: Acne vulgaris is a prevalent dermatological condition characterized by the inflammation of sebaceous follicles. This inflammation results in various clinical manifestations, including open and closed comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts, which predominantly appear on the face. The impact of acne vulgaris extends beyond physical symptoms, often affecting psychological well-being and quality of life, particularly among adolescents. Given this condition's widespread prevalence and significant implications, there is a pressing need for effective and accessible treatments. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Kencur Rhizome Ethanol Extract Gel (Kaempferia galanga L. Rhizoma / KGR) on mild and moderate acne vulgaris lesions among high school students. Method: Twenty-four high school students were divided into three groups: Group 1 received 0.75% Kaempferia galanga rhizome ethanol extract gel, Group 2 received a combination gel of 0.75% Kaempferia galanga ethanol extract, and 75% benzoyl peroxide with 1% clindamycin gel, and Group 3 received 1% clindamycin gel. The number of subjects in each group was determined using the G Power application. The distribution of gels was randomly assigned using the “Randomly Assign Subjects to Treatment Group” application. Before treatment, blood samples were taken to measure IL-8 levels. After three weeks of treatment, bilateral facial photographs were taken: one with the right side tilted at 45 degrees and the other with the left side tilted at 45 degrees. Blood samples were collected again for IL-8 measurement, and high-resolution photographs of both sides of the face were taken to analyze acne lesions using the ImageJ application. Result: A combination of 0.75% KGR ethanol extract gel and 1% clindamycin gel significantly reduced the severity of AV lesions by affecting IL8 expression (p=0.042) in reducing the severity of mild and moderate AV lesions. For AV lesions using the ImageJ application, the administration of group 2 gel (a combination of 0.75% KGR ethanol extract gel and 1% clindamycin gel) has a significant effect on reducing the severity of mild and moderate degrees of whitehead or blackhead (p = 0.030) and nodules (p = 0.035) in acne vulgaris. Conclusion: A combination of 0.75% kencur rhizome ethanol extract gel and 1% clindamycin gel effectively alleviate acne vulgaris symptoms while also reducing inflammation of acne vulgaris lesions.