New treatments emerge for acne and rosacea

Novel approaches to treating acne and rosacea, combined with careful skin care, may reduce the severity and improve the appearance of both conditions, according to a speaker at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Jenny J. Kim, MD, PhD, said antibiotic therapy was the typical treatment for most acne cases in the past. However, mounting worry over the development of bacterial resistance spurred the birth of new treatments.

Kim highlighted the popularity of incorporating anti-inflammatories into therapies, such as an oral form of controlled-release low-dose doxycycline, to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. Furthermore, combination therapies, which may include anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, are convenient for patients and may decrease resistance, according to Kim.

Lasers and light-based technologies — including the pulsed-dye laser, red and blue light and photodynamic therapy — offer effective complementary treatments to traditional therapies. Kim said these should not be first-line therapies for acne.

She also discussed fractional laser resurfacing to help eliminate acne-related scars. This technology thermally damages the tiny columns of scarred skin while the surrounding healthy skin remains intact. Although this treatment can produce marked improvements in appearance, most patients will only see mild results.

Pulsed-dye lasers and intense-pulsed light treatments helped reduce redness and flushing for patients with rosacea, Kim said. Additionally, oral medications and topical therapies such as metronidazole and azelaic acid have shown good results.

Proper skin care is important for all patients, Kim emphasized. She advised against harsh treatments or too many over-the-counter products. Instead, she recommended mild cleansers and moisturizers that contain sunblock.

“The old adage ‘less is more’ applies to patients with sensitive skin. The best advice is to discuss your skin care regimen with your dermatologist, who can recommend products based on not only your specific skin condition but your individual skin type, as well,” Kim said in a press release.

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