Sebusuppressive efficacy of the antioxidant bis-ethylhexyl hydroxydimethoxy benzylmalonate in the treatment of oily and blemished skin

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of 2% bis-ethylhexyl hydroxydimethoxy benzylmalonate (HDBM; RonaCare(®) AP) as an active ingredient in the treatment of oily and blemished skin. This study was carried out as a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind study on 44 test subjects with blemished skin over a period of 8 weeks. Sebum measurement, skin inflammation/redness scoring by an expert, photographic documentation and a self-assessment with regard to skin improvement, and tests of skin compatibility and galenic characteristics were performed. Treatment with 2% HDBM resulted in a significant reduction of sebum excretion and showed efficacy against inflamed/red lesions also shown by photographic documentation. Efficacy and galenic performance of 2% HDBM were judged to be superior to the placebo emulsion. Additionally, 2% HDBM was well tolerated; approximately 80% of the test subjects rated the compatibility as good to very good.