Efficacy of 0.5% Topical Timolol Eye Drops in the Treatment of Post-Inflammatory Erythema Following Acne Vulgaris

Efficacy of 0.5% Topical Timolol Eye Drops in the Treatment of Post-Inflammatory Erythema Following Acne Vulgaris: A Comparative Study With Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is a common sequela of acne vulgaris, characterized by persistent erythematous macules resulting from superficial vascular dilation. Current treatment options include energy-based devices such as intense pulsed light (IPL); however, these modalities may be costly and require specialized equipment.

Timolol, a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker, has demonstrated vasoconstrictive properties and has been used off-label in dermatology for vascular-related conditions. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical 0.5% timolol ophthalmic solution in improving post-inflammatory erythema secondary to acne vulgaris and to compare its clinical outcomes with those achieved by intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy.

This prospective comparative study will assess changes in erythema severity using standardized clinical evaluation and objective measurement tools over a defined treatment period. The findings may provide evidence for a cost-effective and accessible therapeutic alternative for managing post-acne erythema.

Inclusion Criteria: Participants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Age ≥ 12 years with a history of acne vulgaris.
• Clinically diagnosed with post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) secondary to acne vulgaris.
• Willing and able to provide informed consent (or assent with parental/guardian consent if under 18 years of age).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Refusal to participate or inability to comply with study procedures (examinations, treatment, follow-up visits), or loss to follow-up.
• Presence of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) at the study site that may interfere with accurate assessment of erythema.
• Presence of other dermatologic conditions affecting the treatment area (e.g., atopic dermatitis, rosacea, lupus erythematosus).
• Known hypersensitivity or adverse reaction to timolol or other beta-adrenergic receptor blockers.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• History of cardiovascular or respiratory conditions contraindicating beta-blocker use (e.g., asthma, atrioventricular block, bradycardia <50 beats per minute, hypotension).
• Use of other topical medications or cosmetic products (except sunscreen) on the study area during the study period.