The role of skin care as an integral component in the management of acne vulgaris: part 1: the importance of cleanser and moisturizer ingredients, design, and product selection.

Acne vulgaris is a very common facial skin disorder accounting for approximately 10 percent of all visits to ambulatory dermatology practices across the United States annually. Over time, greater attention has been directed to the roles of multiple epidermal barrier functions in various dermatological disorders, especially the stratum corneum permeability barrier and antimicrobial barrier. As a result, it has become readily apparent that professional direction of skin care is very important in the overall management of acne vulgaris. This article discusses several reasons that support the importance of incorporating specified skin care recommendations and instructions into the overall management plan for acne vulgaris. In addition, the article reviews formulation characteristics and some of the scientific data on two commercially available products that are recommended for use as a skin care regimen in patients with acne-prone and acne-affected skin, a foam wash and a moisturizer with a sun protection factor 30 broad spectrum photoprotection rating. The rationale for inclusion of specific ingredients are discussed along with an overview of research results including use in patients with acne vulgaris.