Update on cancer-causing benzene in acne products leads dermatology news from October

Key takeaways:

• In the top story of October, Healio spoke with an expert on an update regarding benzene in benzoyl peroxide products.
• Rosacea-based articles also dominated the month’s headlines.

A study on cancer-causing benzene in acne products was Healio Dermatology’s most-read article of October, with coverage from clinical meetings also garnering attention.

Here are the top articles from last month.

Study shows benzoyl peroxide products on store shelves may already contain benzene

A new study confirmed previous findings that acne products containing benzoyl peroxide have high levels of cancer-causing benzene which are not stabilized by encapsulation techniques. John Barbieri, MD, MBA, assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and director of the advanced acne therapeutics clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, weighed in. Read more.

Anti-redness regimen improves rosacea, maintains excellent tolerability

An anti-redness regimen comprised of a redness reducing serum, moisturizer and sunscreen improved the signs and symptoms of rosacea while maintaining excellent tolerability, according to a study. Read more.

Researchers identify two genes as key drivers of acne inflammation

Researchers identified two key genes, the granulin precursor gene and interleukin-13 receptor subunit alpha-1 gene, that contribute to the pathogenesis of acne, potentially opening doors for new treatment approaches, according to a study. Read more.

FDA reviewing application for bemotrizinol as first new sunscreen ingredient since 1999

The first over-the-counter monograph order request tier 1 application for bemotrizinol, an active sunscreen ingredient, has been submitted to the FDA, dsm-firmenich announced in a press release. Read more.

Cryomodulation reduces rosacea symptoms

Patients with rosacea experienced an improvement in symptoms following cryomodulation, according to pilot study results presented at the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Annual Meeting. Read more.

‘Just like... Monet’: How paramedical tattoos can be used to treat vitiligo

Tattoos are not just for decorative purposes; they can also be used to treat vitiligo, according to a presentation at the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Annual Meeting. Read more.

Secondary melanoma risk highest in Black patients

While Black patients are less likely to develop first melanoma than white patients, this group has a higher relative rate of secondary melanoma diagnosis, according to a study. Read more.

FDA approves Botox Cosmetic for platysma bands

The FDA has approved Botox Cosmetic to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe platysma bands — vertical bands that connect the jaw and neck — making it the first product approved for four aesthetic indications. Read more.

Plant-based topical improves itch, quality of life among patients with atopic dermatitis

Zabalafin hydrogel clinically improved itch and quality of life among pediatric and adult patients with atopic dermatitis, according to interim results presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology Congress. Read more.

Speaker discusses predictive power of Merlin test for low-, high-risk melanoma

A presentation at the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Annual Meeting detailed new data that showcased the validity of the Merlin test in identifying sentinel lymph node biopsy status in high-risk patients with melanoma. Read more.