| dc.description.abstract | ABSTRACT
Background: Post-acne macular scars often cause skin discoloration, affecting appearance and self-confidence. Various topical therapies have been developed to address this issue. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) is widely cultivated in North Sumatra. Broccoli stems, a byproduct of harvesting, contain bioactive compounds such as sulforaphane and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties so that broccoli stem extract has the potential to help improve post-acne macular scars.
Objective: To analyze the effect of 6% broccoli stem extract cream (Brassica oleracea L.) on post-acne macular scars.
Subjects and Methods: This study was a pre-experimental clinical trial with a pretest-posttest design, involving 30 male and female subjects aged ≥18 years with post-acne macular scars, selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Baseline data collection, melanin index assessment, and erythema index evaluation were conducted before and after applying 6% broccoli stem extract cream for 8 weeks. Data analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon test, with a significance level set at p<0.05.
Results: Most subjects with macular scars were in the late adolescence age group (18–25 years). A statistically significant reduction (p<0.001) was observed in both the melanin index and erythema index after 8 weeks of applying the 6% broccoli stem extract cream. Clinical improvements were evident, and no side effects were reported. All subjects (100%) were satisfied with the use of the broccoli stem extract cream.
Conclusion: The use of 6% broccoli stem extract cream effectively improves pigmentation and reduces both the melanin index and erythema index in post-acne macular scars. The cream was well tolerated, with no reported side effects and a high level of patient satisfaction.
Keywords: macular scar, acne vulgaris, broccoli stem extract, herbal treatment | en_US |
