Silk textile with antimicrobial AEM5772/5 (Dermasilk): a pilot study with positive influence on acne vulgaris on the back

Background The use of special silk textiles (Dermasilk) has shown positive effects on chronic inflammatory diseases like lichen sclerosus et atrophicus, atopic dermatitis, diabetic ulcerations, and vulvovaginal candidiasis. Objective Wearing T-shirts of this particular fabric could be useful in the management of patients with acne vulgaris on the back and trunk. Material and Methods Dermasilk T-shirts were given to 14 patients with acne vulgaris papulopustulosa on the back. The patients wore these shirts every night for 6 weeks, and their acne lesions were monitored. Dermasilk represents a polymerisate of fibroin, a silk protein, and antimicrobial AEM5772/5, an unsoluble colorless, odorless ammonium with antifungal and antibacterial ability. Results Photographic documentation before and after 6 weeks showed a clinically significant reduction in acne lesions on the back without any concomitant treatment or change in lifestyle and living conditions. Discussion The use of Dermasilk textiles in other subacute-chronic inflammatory skin diseases has shown positive effects. This is the first report on their safe and effective use in the management of acne vulgaris papulopustulosa corporis.