Multifunctional mesoporous superparamagnetic Iron oxide-based nanocomposites for synergistic Photothermal/Fenton therapy in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Clascoterone 1% in the Treatment of Acne: A Review of its Efficacy, Safety, and Therapeutic Positioning.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin disease manifested by seborrhea, inflammatory lesions, papules, blackheads, and pustules. Most teenagers experience acne lesions of varying severity, and in some cases, they persist into adulthood. Although dermatological treatment is necessary for severe forms of the disease, mild acne lesions can be effectively alleviated by using natural herbal extracts or cosmetic preparations to care for the skin. In this article, five medicinal plant species (Sanguisorba officinalis, Filipendula ulmaria, Artemisia absinthium, Hypericum perforatum, Tanacetum vulgare) are described. These plants were chosen for their phytochemical composition which has been proven to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. They have a high potential for the treatment of acne-prone skin, but they have not yet been utilized in the production of cosmetics. A comprehensive review of the literature published between 2000 and 2025 was conducted using scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect and Web of Science.

Acne Vulgaris (AV) lesions exhibit an acidic, sebum-rich, and inflammation-prone microenvironment in which conventional minocycline therapy is constrained by the stratum-corneum barrier and systemic exposure. Here, we present the fabrication and application of dissolvable silk fibroin microneedles encapsulating minocycline-loaded zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (Mino@ZIF-8/SF MNs) to achieve sebaceous gland-targeted, pH-responsive delivery and multimodal therapy. The Mino@ZIF-8/SF MNs display uniform conical morphology, excellent mechanical robustness (peak failure force ≈ 0.4N per needle), rapid dissolution (< 1min), high drug loading (≈ 40.11%) and encapsulation efficiency (≈ 70.2%), and negligible hemolytic activity. Under mildly acidic conditions (pH 5.5), minocycline release was markedly accelerated compared to physiological pH 7.4, reflecting the acidified acne microenvironment. Functionally, Mino@ZIF-8/SF MNs achieved > 95% inhibition of Cutibacterium acnes at 30µg/patch and substantially attenuated sebocyte inflammatory responses. In heat-killed C. acnes-stimulated SZ95 sebocytes, the Mino@ZIF-8/SF MNs downregulated NFKB1, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and MMP9 expression, along with suppression of cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, IL-17 and NET-associated signaling pathways. RNA-sequencing also suggested that sebocyte metabolism may undergo reprogramming involving enhanced apoptosis, maintenance of mitochondrial oxidative activity, and modulation of PPARγ-related lipid metabolism, which could collectively contribute to reduced lipid droplet accumulation. In a C. acnes-induced acne-like mouse model, Mino@ZIF-8/SF MNs markedly accelerated lesion resolution, reduced lesion elevation, eschar formation, and diameter scores, normalized epidermal thickness, and decreased sebaceous lipid accumulation, while exhibiting no detectable systemic toxicity as confirmed by histology, hematology, and serum biochemistry. Collectively, this study establishes a nanobiotechnology platform that integrates metal-organic frameworks(MOF)-based pH-responsive delivery with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic reprogramming activities, offering a precise and minimally invasive multimodal strategy for sebaceous gland-targeted acne therapy.

Background: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. The inflammatory process involves immune responses partially regulated by IL-24, suggesting its potential role in AV pathophysiology and clinical severity. However, data on serum IL-24 levels based on AV severity remain limited, particularly in Indonesia. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between serum IL-24 levels and acne vulgaris severity to further elucidate its molecular mechanisms. Methods: This observational analytical study with a cross-sectional design was conducted at Dr. Moewardi General Hospital, Surakarta, Indonesia, from November 2025 to January 2026, involving healthy individuals and acne vulgaris patients. AV severity was assessed using the Lehmann classification, and serum IL-24 levels were measured by ELISA. Results: A total of 60 subjects were involved, consisting of 15 healthy controls, 15 patients with mild AV, 15 with moderate AV, and 15 with severe AV. Pearson correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between serum IL-24 levels and AV severity (p = 0.186). However, there was a trend towards increasing serum IL-24 levels along with acne severity. In the healthy control group, IL-24 levels were lower than in the AV group. Conclusions: Serum IL-24 levels are not associated with acne vulgaris severity. This is likely due to its effect on local keratinocyte proliferation. Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology using histopathological examination of skin tissue from patients with AV

Background Inflammatory dermatoses have a varied prevalence and appearance in diverse skin tones. The under-representation of people with skin of colour in medical education and clinical trials is widely acknowledged. However, there has been limited research on experiences from a patient perspective. Aim To explore the experiences of eczema, acne and psoriasis in adults with skin of colour in the UK. Design and Setting A qualitative study of 20 people with eczema, acne and psoriasis and skin of colour, recruited using online methods. Methods Participants took part in online, one-to-one, semi-structured interviews. NVivo qualitative data analysis software was used to code and organise the data. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to generate themes using an iterative approach. Results Participants were mostly female (65%), Asian/Asian British ethnicity (45%) and had eczema (55%). We identified eight themes: (i) delayed or missed diagnosis; (ii) preferences regarding healthcare professionals; (iii) lack of online information and social media use; (iv) misunderstanding in cultural communities; (v) concerns about treatment and lack of research in skin of colour; (vi) complementary and alternative medicine use; (vii) experiences and impact of dyspigmentation; and (viii) challenges with structural racism. Conclusions The themes generated highlight the unique experiences and challenges faced by UK adults with eczema, acne and psoriasis. The findings can help guide diagnostic approaches, culturally sensitive communication and treatment discussions for patients with skin of colour. Further research is needed in this under-represented group.

Over 15% of acne patients manifest moderate to severe clinical presentations, accompanied with bacterial infection, long-term inflammatory responses, dysregulated lipid metabolism, and post-acne skin atrophy. Although microneedles (MNs) represent an effective transdermal drug delivery system for acne treatment, the therapeutic effects on the restoration of dysregulated lipid metabolism and the prevention of atrophic acne scars are still lacking. Herein, we develop proteoglycan-mimetic comb polymer (HMC)-based dissolving microneedles (HMC-PEP MNs) with encapsulation of therapeutic peptides. This system effectively targets the acne pathophysiological pathways involving bacterial colonization, lipid dysregulation, chronic inflammation and impaired tissue repair. Specifically, HMC enables sustained release of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory peptides via multiple non-covalent interactions. HMC-PEP MNs display significant efficacy via eradicatingCutibacterium acnes infection, suppressing pro-inflammatory mediator expression, and reducing the TREM2/M2 macrophage ratio. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis reveals that HMC-PEP MNs effectively regulate cholesterol and linoleic acid metabolism, inhibit pro-inflammatory signaling transduction, and reduce keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation by inhibiting the IGF1/IGF1R/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Interestingly, HMC-PEP MNs also promote collagen synthesis and ameliorate fibroblast dysfunction, thereby preventing the formation of post-acne dermal atrophy. This study presents an effective therapeutic strategy for acne and elucidates the underlying mechanisms of HMC-PEP MNs, demonstrating considerable promise for clinical translation.

Background The American Academy of Dermatology guidelines for treating mild to severe acne strongly recommend a combination of topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide (BPO) and/or topical or oral antibiotics. Topical clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/BPO 3.1% (CAB) gel is the only fixed-dose, triple-combination formulation approved for acne treatment. CAB showed superior efficacy to component dyads and vehicle, with good tolerability and safety in a phase 2 and two phase 3 clinical trials of participants with moderate to severe acne. Results from a second phase 2 trial of CAB gel comparing its efficacy/safety in a head-to-head trial versus commercially available adapalene 0.3%/BPO 2.5% (ADAP/BPO) gel are reported here. Methods In a phase 2, double-blind, 12-week clinical trial (NCT04892706), participants with moderate to severe acne aged ≥12 years were randomized (2:2:1:1) to once-daily CAB, ADAP/BPO, or 1 of 2 vehicle gels (combined for analysis). Co-primary endpoints included percentage of participants achieving treatment success (≥2-grade reduction from baseline in Evaluator’s Global Severity Score and clear/almost clear skin) and least squares (LS) mean absolute change from baseline in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesion counts at week 12. Secondary endpoints included LS mean percent change from baseline in lesion counts at week 12. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were also evaluated. Co-primary endpoints were further analyzed by subgroups defined by participant age (&lt;18 or ≥18 years) and sex. Results A total of 686 participants aged 12-56 years were enrolled, of which 2 did not receive study drug. At week 12, significantly more participants achieved treatment success with CAB (51.3%) vs ADAP/BPO (32.9%) or vehicle (18.0%, P&lt;0.001, both). Absolute mean reductions from baseline in lesion counts were significantly greater with CAB (inflammatory, 29.9; noninflammatory, 36.8) or ADAP/BPO (27.9; 34.4) vs vehicle (19.7; 22.7; P&lt;0.001, all). Percent lesion reductions were &gt;71% with CAB, &gt;67% with ADAP/BPO, and ~50% with vehicle (P&lt;0.001 vs vehicle, all). Treatment success rates and absolute lesion reductions in participants stratified by age and sex were in line with the overall population. TEAE rates with CAB and ADAP/BPO were similar, and most TEAEs were of mild or moderate severity. Conclusions Fixed-dose, triple-combination CAB gel was efficacious and well tolerated in participants with moderate to severe acne over 12 weeks, consistent with results from other CAB phase 2/3 clinical trials. In this head-to-head trial, CAB was statistically superior to ADAP/BPO gel with regard to treatment success at week 12 and was efficacious regardless of age and sex.

BackgroundAcne is a chronic inflammatory disease. Recent studies have revealed significant progress in the application of nanomaterials for acne treatment; however, a systematic analysis of research trends and hotspots remains lacking. This study aims to comprehensively present the current status of research in this field and summarize frontier directions using bibliometric methods.MethodsPublications with the subject terms “nanomaterials” and “acne” were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection for the period 2012–2025. Bibliometric analysis and visualization were conducted using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Scimago Graphica, and R language.ResultsA total of 301 articles from 547 institutions across 51 countries were analyzed. Annual publications increased from 7 in 2012 to 25 in 2025, showing a continuous upward trend. India emerged as the leading contributor in this field. Notably, Folle Camila from the University of Barcelona was identified as the most prolific author, Cairo University as the most productive institution, and the International Journal of Pharmaceutics as the core journal in this domain. Keyword analysis indicated that current research focuses primarily on optimizing nanomaterial-based delivery systems, exploring combination formulations, and developing strategies for acne scar repair. Furthermore, our study suggests that potential future hotspots may include adjuvant photodynamic therapy (PDT), safety evaluation of nanomaterials, and the development of intelligent responsive systems.ConclusionThis study systematically summarizes the research landscape and developmental trends of nanomaterials in acne treatment. The findings provide clinicians and researchers with a rapid overview of the academic frontiers in this area, offering valuable references for clinical decision-making and the identification of future research directions.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease involving multiple factors such as increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, microbial colonization, and inflammation. Serum amyloid A1 (SAA1), an acute phase protein, and insulin, a hormone linked to metabolic and inflammatory pathways, may play significant roles in acne pathogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate SAA1 and insulin levels in patients with acne vulgaris and to investigate their relationship with disease severity and scar formation. A total of 72 acne vulgaris patients [13 males, 59 females; median age 22 (19-34) years] and 66 age-similar healthy controls [27 males, 39 females; median age 22 (18-38) years] were included. Acne severity was assessed using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS), and scar severity was evaluated by the Global Scale for Acne Scar Severity. SAA1 and insulin levels were measured via ELISA from fasting blood samples. Additionally, anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters were recorded. A total of 138 participants were included, with 72 acne vulgaris patients and 66 healthy controls. The groups were age-similar, though a higher female proportion was observed in the acne group. SAA1 levels were significantly higher in acne patients (p = 0.045), whereas insulin levels did not differ significantly (p = 0.902). LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol were significantly lower in the acne group (p = 0.003, p = 0.045, p = 0.023, respectively). SAA1 levels did not significantly correlate with acne severity (p = 0.052) or scar severity (p = 0.09). However, LDL and total cholesterol showed weak negative correlations with both acne severity and scar severity. Elevated SAA1 in acne vulgaris patients suggests that SAA1 may serve as a novel biomarker for assessing inflammation in acne. Further large-scale studies are needed to explore therapeutic implications targeting inflammation.

ABSTRACT Background and Objective Isotretinoin is a systemic agent widely used in the treatment of severe acne vulgaris. Previous studies have reported that isotretinoin use may be associated with depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in sleep quality, anxiety, and depression in patients with acne vulgaris during isotretinoin treatment. Materials and Methods This retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data included 155 patients receiving isotretinoin treatment at a tertiary dermatology outpatient clinic in Turkey between January 2023 and December 2024. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) were administered to patients before treatment, at the end of the first month, and at the end of the third month of treatment. Patients with a history of psychiatric disorders, use of psychotropic medications, or systemic diseases affecting sleep or mood were excluded from the study. Results Isotretinoin treatment was associated with a significant reduction in acne severity over the 3‐month follow‐up period. A transient increase in depressive and anxiety symptoms was observed during the first month of treatment, followed by a significant improvement by the third month. Overall, isotretinoin treatment was not associated with a significant deterioration in sleep quality throughout the study period. Conclusion Isotretinoin treatment was associated with a significant reduction in acne severity, depression, and anxiety, while no significant overall change in sleep quality was observed. The temporary increase in depression and anxiety observed at the end of the first month may be related to the cutaneous side effects of isotretinoin. Further prospective studies are needed to better clarify the neuropsychiatric effects of isotretinoin.

Post-acne scarring is a prevalent dermatological concern with significant impact on quality of life. Fractional CO2 laser (FCL) and microneedling radiofrequency (MNRF) are widely used treatments, but their comparative efficacy and safety require further synthesis. This meta-analysis was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of FCL versus MNRF in the management of post-acne scarring. The analysis included eight randomized controlled trials involving a total of 249 patients. The primary outcomes evaluated encompassed improvement in acne scars, patient satisfaction scores, pain levels, the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and the duration of erythema. FCL demonstrated superior improvement in acne scars (MD: 0.31, 95% CI, 0.13-0.48, p = 0.0005) and higher patient satisfaction (MD: 0.32, 95% CI, 0.10-0.44, p = 0.005) compared to MNRF. However, FCL was associated with significantly higher pain scores (MD: 2.14, 95% CI, 1.90-2.37, p < 0.00001), an increased risk of PIH (RR: 4.44, 95% CI, 2.39-8.26, p < 0.00001), and a longer duration of erythema (MD: 1.72 days, 95% CI, 1.43-2.02, p < 0.00001). MNRF exhibited a more favorable safety profile. While FCL offers superior efficacy for post-acne scarring, MNRF provides better tolerability. The choice of treatment should be individualized, considering patient-specific factors such as skin type, pain tolerance, and recovery expectations. Further research with longer follow-up and standardized outcomes is needed.

Ionic liquids in dermatological drug delivery: advances, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential.

Integrated in vitro - in vivo evaluation of Angelica sinensis essential oil as an anti-acne agent: Mechanistic insights into bioactive compounds and multi-target therapeutic actions.

Anti-acne mechanisms of Yuqingyan, a novel multi-herbal formula derived from traditional Chinese medicine.

Acne is the most prevalent skin disorder in the United States, affecting up to 50 million people from all age groups. Treatment options include topical and systemic therapies. Limitation in many treatment options opens avenues for alternative therapies, such as chemical peeling. This exploratory study, funded by Colgate Palmolive company, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a new chemical peel (PCAskin Acne Peel Plus) in treating adult acne. The novel peel features a blend of acids and biofunctional ingredients designed to aid in acne management. The study's primary objective was to assess the novel peel's effectiveness in positively influencing acne severity, specifically by reducing acne lesions, papules, and pustules. Sixteen participants aged 25-40 years old, with Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI, presenting evidence of mild-to-moderate acne, were assessed over a 12-week period following treatment initiation. The effects of the test peel on acne were evaluated using a combination of methods. Skin sebum was measured using a moisture meter (BGJOY, SK-IV digital moisture monitor for skin). Photographic data was obtained using the Canfield Visia CR System (Canfield, Fairfield, NJ; model Generation 7, software version 8) for determining acne severity, appearance of skin pores, texture and redness. Acne severity was assessed by the study investigator using the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) acne severity scale from the Visia images. Subjective assessment of skin parameters (acne severity, oiliness of the skin, pore size, skin discoloration, skin texture/smoothness, overall clarity of skin tone, and changes in scarring appearance) was also obtained at the start (Day 0) and end (Week 12) of the study using self-assessment questionnaires filled out by the study subjects. Significant decreases in total acne lesions (papules + pustules; p-value = 0.012) and papules (p-value = 0.023) were observed at the outset of the study (Week 12) compared to baseline (Day 0), with an average change (standard deviation) of -2.0 (2.6) and -1.8 (2.5) lesions, respectively. In addition, significant improvements in sebum content (Week 12, p-value = 0.042), erythema (Week 12, p-value = 0.030), and pore appearance (Day 1; p-value = 0.005; Week 12, p-value = 0.003) were observed compared to baseline. Positive perceptions of the treatment among participants and perceived improvements in acne severity (p-value = 0.004) and skin clarity (p-value = 0.036) were also highlighted. No adverse effects were observed during the study. This preliminary exploratory study indicates that treatment with a novel chemical peel appeared to yield a range of benefits for adults with acne-prone skin, supporting its potential as a safe, inexpensive, and minimally invasive treatment for the management of mild-to-moderate forms of adult acne. Further large scale, controlled studies are necessary to confirm these initial findings.

Comprehensive review on current pharmacotherapy strategies for acne vulgaris: Evidence-based insights and emerging treatments

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of combination therapy with clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide in treating acne vulgaris. We assessed the antimicrobial susceptibility of Cutibacterium acnes isolates obtained from these patients. In addition, the potential risk of C. acnes developing resistance to clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide following exposure was investigated invitro. We analyzed 182 C. acnes isolates from patients with acne to evaluate the clindamycin susceptibility and resistance determinants and to examine the association between topical clindamycin use and resistance. We also tested the resistance frequency of C. acnes to clindamycin monotherapy and clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide combination therapy invitro. The clindamycin resistance rates in the clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin monotherapy groups were 22.9% and 46.7%, respectively. The combination group showed a significantly lower clindamycin resistance rate (p < 0.05). Under clindamycin monotherapy, resistant strains emerged at a frequency of 8.1 × 10-8 to 8.7 × 10-8, whereas no resistant strains were detected under clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide combination conditions. The combination of clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide effectively suppressed the emergence of clindamycin-resistant C. acnes.

Unlocking the antibacterial potential of Zanthoxylum armatum fruit: A bioactive approach to treat acne vulgaris.

Integrative homoeopathic management of acne vulgaris: A narrative review combining constitutional prescribing with targeted topical mother tincture