Comedolysis

In comedolysis, stimulation of epithelial turnover leads to an increased production of loose horny cells which no longer stick tightly together.

As a result, comedogenesis, comedolysis and bacterial load can be accurately quantified.

The medication also has some keratolytic effect, which produces comedolysis as well as drying and desquamative actions that contribute to its efficacy.

All of the above factors demonstrate that comedolysis is retinoid-specific, not simply secondary to desquamation.

Salicylic acid peels are therefore preferred for patients wishing comedolysis as part of acne treatment or for patients wishing to remove retained hairs and other debris from within the pore.