Microneedling by dermapen and glycolic acid peel for the treatment of acne scars: Comparative study

Background: Many methods have been performed to achieve a satisfying outcome in acne scars but some of them were high cost and also were associated with low results and some complications. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety therapy of glycolic acid (GA) peel, microneedling with dermapen and a combination of both procedures in treatment of atrophic acne scars. Patents and methods: This study was conducted on 30 patients suffering from acne scars. They were randomly assigned into three groups, each group included 10 patients; group I was treated with GA peel, group II treated was with microneedling. Group III received a combination of both procedures. All patients received six sessions with 2-week intervals. The clinical assessment was based on the qualitative global scar grading system before and after treatment, quartile grading scale, and degree of patient satisfaction. Results: There was a statistically significant decrease in acne scars grade after treatment among the studied groups (P = 0.04) but it was higher in group III. There was improvement in boxcar, ice pick, and rolling scars in all groups, respectively (P = 0.03, P = 0.04, P = 0.04). Patients' satisfaction was higher in group III (P = 0.04). Conclusion: The combination of dermapen and GA peel is more effective than monotherapy.