Efficacy of topical 30% salicylic acid in combination with minocycline in moderate to severe acne.

To evaluate the efficacy of topical 30% salicylic acid plus minocycline in moderate to severe acne. One hundred patients with moderate to severe acne from February 2020 to February 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. They were assigned (1:1) to receive either topical 30% salicylic acid plus minocycline (combination group) or minocycline (mono therapy group). The acne scores, physician subjective and objective scores, efficacy, quality of life, incidence of adverse reactions, recurrence and satisfaction in both groups were compared. The combination group had lower Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) scores, erythema scores and papulopustular scores than the mono therapy group. Combined therapy was associated with lower erythema absolute value and erythema index, more skin water content and less transcutaneous water loss versus minocycline. Higher efficacy, acne symptoms scores, and quality of life were observed with combination therapy versus mono therapy (P<0.05). The two groups had a similar incidence of adverse reactions and recurrence. Combination therapy showed a higher appearance satisfaction versus mono therapy. The efficacy of topical 30% salicylic acid plus minocycline for moderate to severe acne was better versus minocycline.