◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Published: February 1, 2026
Microneedling, Exfoliation, and Combination Therapy for Oily Skin
A small study of 55 women with oily skin found that microneedling, exfoliation with mandelic acid, and combination therapy may help improve skin hydration and reduce sebum levels. Researchers also found that these treatments may decrease the activity of a bacteria associated with acne. However, the study's results are based on a small sample and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: Understanding how different treatments affect oily skin and acne-causing bacteria may help individuals make informed decisions about their skincare routines.
This study had a small sample size and a relatively short duration, with measurements taken over 126 days. More research is needed to confirm these findings and to understand the long-term effects of these treatments.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Published: September 11, 2025
Dermocosmetics May Help Manage Acne in the Middle East and North Africa
Researchers studied the use of dermocosmetics in acne management in the Middle East and North Africa. They found that dermocosmetics may be helpful as a standalone treatment for mild acne or as an addition to acne medications to improve their effectiveness and tolerance. The study also highlighted the importance of cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection in acne management.
Why it matters: This study may help people in the Middle East and North Africa understand how to better manage acne and its associated complications.
This study was based on expert consensus and case studies, and more research is needed to confirm its findings.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.CeramidesPublished: July 1, 2025
Ceramide-Containing Cleanser May Help Improve Oily Skin and Post-IPL Skin
A small study investigated the effects of a ceramide-containing cleanser on oily skin and skin after intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments. Researchers found that using this cleanser for 28 days may improve skin hydration, reduce sebum content, and decrease pore size in people with oily skin. Additionally, it may help reduce redness in skin after IPL treatments.
Why it matters: This study may provide insights into the potential benefits of ceramide-containing cleansers for people with oily skin or those undergoing IPL treatments.
A small sample size of 88 volunteers was used, and the study duration was limited to 28 days.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: June 14, 2025
Oxymetholone may help some adult aplastic anemia patients in Thailand
A small study in Thailand looked at how oxymetholone, a hormone treatment, helped adult patients with aplastic anemia. Researchers found that some patients responded well to the treatment, but many experienced side effects like hepatitis and acne. The study also identified certain factors that might predict a good response to the treatment.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare understanding by highlighting the potential cosmetic side effects of hormone treatments, such as acne and oily skin.
This study had a small sample size of 110 patients and was conducted in a specific population in Thailand, which may limit its generalizability. The study also had a high dropout rate due to side effects, and the long-term effects of oxymetholone are not well understood.
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments. No human or animal data.Published: January 22, 2025
Camellia saponin may help control sebum production in oily skin
Researchers studied Camellia saponin's effect on human sebocytes, cells that produce sebum. They found that it may help reduce sebum production when combined with oleic acid and linoleic acid. This was observed in lab experiments.
Why it matters: Understanding how to control sebum production could lead to new skincare ingredients for people with oily skin.
This study was conducted in a lab using human sebocytes in a controlled environment. The results may not translate to real-world skincare products or human skin.