If treatments already exist for this disease, a new natural alternative could treat serious forms of acne.
Acne is a disease that affects on average 3 out of 4 adolescents between 12 and 20 years old. However, it can also affect adults between the ages of 25 and 58. This disease results in the appearance on the face, back or shoulders of blackheads and whiteheads. Inflammatory lesions recognizable by their red color may also appear. Thus, there are several forms of acne more or less severe depending on the individual.
Nevertheless, acne remains a real daily problem. Some teenagers experience this disease very badly and seek solutions to make it disappear. Especially since it can leave scars on the skin. In pharmacy, treatments exist to treat acne. However, these treatments generally only concern mild to moderate forms.
But researchers from Ifremer in Nantes, in partnership with the University of Limoges, the University Hospital of Nantes, the CNRS and La Rochelle University could have found a natural and effective solution. For this, they chose to use virtues of a micro-algae.
An algae activated by light
The algae in question is the Skeletonema marinoi. This is already known to scientists in certain cancer treatments. However, this is the first time it has been experienced as part of an acne treatment. If this choice was made, it is because this seaweed has an amazing characteristic. In effect, its beneficial effects are only activated when the algae is exposed to light. This can be natural or artificial.
Light activation created molecules capable of naturally eliminating the bacteria responsible for acne. According to the first observations, the algae would also help to reduce sebum production. This has the effect of making adolescent skin less oily and more beautiful.
Researchers from Ifremer in Nantes tested the effects of algae on 3 different forms of acne. These forms are more or less severe and include bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Thanks to this first conclusive clinical trial, the researchers are optimistic. It will however be necessary to carry out additional studies before a cream or a gel with seaweed is marketed.
Fight acne thanks to care but also by adopting good habits
If this cream represents hope for millions of teenagers, there are other ways to cure acne. Studies have shown that diet can influence the appearance of pimples. Today, teenagers pay more and more attention to their diet and this has an impact on their skin.
The development of dermatology practices has also contributed to helping teenagers fight their pimples. But seaweed cream could eventually become a mainstream treatment available to everyone, including affected adults. The study was subject from a press release published on December 13, 2021 on Ifremer’s official website.