Comparitive study on the combination of Nigella Sativa with micro-needling for post-acne scarring

Abstract

Acne is one of the leading skin disorders resulting in a debilitating physical appearance and psychological distress. Studies have shown that acne, and acne scarring are more common amongst women (76%) than men (24%). The need for acne scarring treatments is ever-rising. Post-acne scarring is a common, permanent, distressing, disfiguring skin disorder, which results from poor healing of active acne vulgaris. Post-acne scarring usually persists for a long time, even after the acne lesions have disappeared, due to its disfigurement leading to visible scarring, and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Acne scarring is more than a cosmetic concern, but rather, a medical problem, as it causes psychological problems. The growing interest in the use of botanical ingredients in modern aesthetics has grown phenomenally. This trend had led the researcher to using micro-needling in combination with oil from medicinal plant (Nigella sativa), with the aim of providing further insight in the growing interest and use of botanical ingredients. The aim of the study was to determine whether Nigella sativa, along with microneedling, would provide better results when compared to micro-needling alone. The addition of the botanical oil was used in order to act as a synergist for micro-needling by improving post-acne scarring. Thi study employed quantitative research approach with qualitative elements, making use of purposive sampling. A total of 50 female participants with post-acne scarring were recruited into the study, however only 42 completed the study. Participants were consulted and a participant demographic information sheet, post acne scarring grading scale and photographic images were taken at baseline with the Visia Skin Complexion Analyser®. The participant’s pain intensity scale, information sheet and satisfaction survey provided descriptive data. Data saturation was achieved after analysis of the results. The results that emerged from the study indicated an improvement in both the control and experimental group. The results of this study provided valuable insight into the use of botanical oils, combined with micro-needling. It is important to note that there is lack of research in South Africa in this area, especially on males, as studies have indicated that men have exhibited the same effects as females in relation to scarring. Results from the study indicated improvement in both the control and experimental group, however a significant improvement in scarring along with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was observed within the experimental group. This is indicative of the fact that the addition of the Nigella sativa oil helped to elicit a significant improvement, when combined with micro-needling. What further emerged from the study was the importance and use of a quality of life questionnaire, particularly in post-acne scarring, as limited research and studies exist. It is important to monitor acne, especially within a clinical setting