Novel 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser With Polymeric Cleansing Technology Treats Acne Without Compromising Skin Barrier

A novel acne cleanser containing 2% Salicylic acid (SA), Polymeric Cleansing Technology (PCT), and a microgel complex, was evaluated for its efficacy in treating mild to moderate acne while maintaining skin barrier integrity. The cleanser's effects on the skin barrier were assessed on epidermal equivalents by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), IL-1α release, and hyperkeratinization. A 5-day exaggerated arm wash (EAW) study (n=33) assessed transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin dryness, and erythema compared to benchmark cleansers. Acne reduction, cosmetic benefits, and lipid profile effects were evaluated in a 12-week facial study (n=35). Product safety and tolerability were monitored throughout. Compared to a conventional SA-surfactant cleanser, the new SA-PCT with microgel complex cleanser maintained skin barrier integrity as shown through higher TEER (P<0.001) and decreased IL-1α release (P<0.0001), and no significant hyperkeratinization (P<0.0001) in pre-clinical studies. Clinical results showed less barrier disruption through decreased TEWL (P<0.001), decreased skin irritation (dryness: P<0.01, erythema: P<0.001), and no lipid barrier disruption with significant reductions in acne lesions starting at week 4. Significant objective clinical improvements in skin tone, texture, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and self-assessed improvements in skin oiliness were observed (P<0.05). The cleanser was well-tolerated, with no reports of skin irritation. These results demonstrate the efficacy of the new SA-PCT cleanser in improving acne-prone skin while maintaining the skin barrier. Hussain R, Miller D, Shyr T, et al. Novel 2% salicylic acid cleanser with polymeric cleansing technology treats acne without compromising skin barrier. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24(6):570-578. doi:10.36849/JDD.9019.