Using a ginger patch to treat acne vulgaris

Effectiveness and Safety of Zingiber Officinale Transdermal Patch for Acne Vulgaris; Study of Interleukin 1 and Skin Microbiome

Phase2; Phase3 Interventional Hasanuddin University · NCT06787222

This study is testing a ginger patch to see if it can help treat mild to moderate acne while comparing its effects to a common acne cream.

Quick facts

PhasePhase2; Phase3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment26 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 45 Years
SexFemale
SponsorHasanuddin University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Makassar, South Sulawesi)
Trial IDNCT06787222 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness and safety of a 5% Zingiber officinale transdermal patch for treating mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Participants will apply the patch on one half of their face while using tretinoin cream on both sides, allowing for a direct comparison of treatment effects. The study will assess total lesion counts and collect skin microbiome and interleukin samples before and after treatment. The trial aims to explore a novel approach to acne treatment that may positively influence skin microbiome health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 15-45 with mild to moderate acne vulgaris and at least three pustules on their face.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of allergy to study ingredients, recent use of topical acne medications, or those who are pregnant or lactating may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a new, effective option for managing acne vulgaris with potentially fewer side effects than traditional antibiotics.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of Zingiber officinale in acne treatment is novel, previous studies have indicated its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* female
* 15-45 years old
* mild to moderate acne vulgaris according to Lehmann criteria
* minimal 3 pustules on face that are distributed on right and left sides

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of allergy to ingredients that is used in research
* history of topical acne medication and steroid in the last 2 weeks
* history of medical aesthetic procedure such as laser and chemical peeling in the last 2 weeks
* history of oral antibiotic therapy in the last 6 weeks
* history of oral isotretinoin therapy in the last 6 months
* history of probiotic consumption in the last 3 weeks
* pregnancy and lactation

Where this trial is running

Makassar, South Sulawesi

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Acne Vulgarisacne vulgaris, zingiber officinale, microbiome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.