Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease characterized by inflammatory papules, pustules, and comedones that is prevalent in men and women of color. In fact, acne is the most common dermatologic diagnosis made in SOC populations. Although individuals of all skin types can develop acne vulgaris, there are important differences in darker skin types that are important to consider when choosing an optimal treatment.~Complications from acne are of great concern in this population, as keloids, hypertrophic scars, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are more common in skin of color. PIH may last for weeks to months and, in many cases, is more troublesome to patients than the acne itself. Overall, facial acne and its sequelae have a greater impact on perception of appearance, negative emotions, and social functioning in women of color than white women.~Dapsone is a sulfone compound with anti-inflammatory properties that has been shown to be effective in the treatment of acne vulgaris in SOC. Aczone ® (dapsone) gel, 5% administered twice daily has been associated with significant improvement in overall acne severity, acne signs, and impact on quality of life in women of color. Two phase III trials of a newer formulation of Aczone ® (dapsone) gel, 7.5% used once daily demonstrated that this product is effective, safe, and well-tolerated for the treatment of acne in both men and women; however, limited data is available regarding its efficacy and safety in SOC.~Further, some investigators of the phase IV study on the safety and efficacy of dapsone gel 5% in SOC anecdotally reported improvement in hyperpigmentation over 12 weeks, although this was not a planned efficacy outcome. Further research is needed on the potential effects of dapsone gel on hyperpigmentation and PIH in SOC.~The current study will investigate the therapeutic impact of Aczone gel 7.5% in SOC males and females ages 18 and older with acne vulgaris. The study will also evaluate the impact of Aczone gel on post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation using the Postacne Hyperpigmentation Index (PAHPI) and mexameter-measured melanin index (MI).
Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease characterized by inflammatory papules, pustules, and comedones that is prevalent in men and women of color. Research has demonstrated that Aczone ® (dapsone) gel, 7.5% used once daily is effective, safe, and well-tolerated for the treatment of acne in both men and women; however, limited data is available regarding its efficacy and safety in skin of color (SOC). The current study aims to investigate the therapeutic impact of Aczone gel 7.5% in SOC males and females ages 18 and older with acne vulgaris. The study will also evaluate the impact of Aczone ® gel on hyperpigmentation and PIH of the face.