Significance of topical propolis in the treatment of facial acne vulgaris

BackgroundAcne is a common skin disorder affecting the pilosebaceous unit, arising commonly during adolescence and causing psychological stress. The pathogenesis of acne is attributed to multiple factors. Clinically, it is characterized by the presence of comedones, inflammatory papules, pustules, and sometimes nodules and cysts. Propolis has been attracting the attention of researchers because of its antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, and antifungal properties.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and bacteriological significance of topical propolis extracts in the treatment of facial acne vulgaris.Patients and methodsThis study included 40 patients with facial acne vulgaris. The patients were classified into two groups: group I included 20 patients who were treated with a topical solution of ethanolic extract of propolis, and group II included 20 patients who were treated with a topical solution of ethanol only and served as the control group. Patients were evaluated clinically to assess the efficacy of therapy after treatment. Bacteriological examination was carried out before and after treatment to assess the antimicrobial effect of propolis.ResultsThere was a highly significant clinical efficacy of topical solution of ethanolic extract of propolis in the treatment of acne vulgaris. There was a highly significant bacteriological efficacy of topical solution of ethanolic extract of propolis on gram-positive aerobic (Staphylococcus epidermidis) and gram-positive anaerobic bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes).ConclusionTopical propolis is a promising, effective, well-tolerated, safe, and alternative medication for acne vulgaris. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Further studies are needed for its application in different skin diseases.