Efficacy and Safety of Novel 1% Hydrogen Peroxide Formulations for the Treatment of Mild-to-Moderate Facial and Truncal Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris remains a common condition, with current topical therapies often limited by suboptimal efficacy and tolerability. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of two novel 1% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) formulations, a cream-gel for facial and a sprayable lotion for truncal mild-to-moderate acne. 42 participants presenting facial acne and 41 with truncal acne were treated twice daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy was assessed using the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA), the Spanish Acne Severity Scale (EGAE), and lesion counts. After 56 days, facial acne severity improved significantly (IGA −26%, p = 0.01; EGAE −31%, p = 0.01), with reductions in papules (−45%, p = 0.017), porphyrin count (−27%, p = 0.04), sebum production (−75%, p = 0.005), erythema (−35%, p = 0.0001), and desquamation (−22%, p = 0.02). Truncal acne severity also improved significantly (IGA −32%, p = 0.001; EGAE −45%, p = 0.001), with reductions in inflammatory lesions (−60%, p = 0.001), porphyrin size and count (−55% and −48%, both p = 0.001), erythema (−7%, p = 0.005), and desquamation (−27%, p = 0.001). Both formulations were accepted by the users, with minimal local irritation and high patient satisfaction. Topical 1% H2O2 formulations demonstrated significant and well-tolerated efficacy in both facial and truncal acne, supporting their potential as safe and patient-friendly options for managing mild-to-moderate acne.