Acne 

Actinic Keratosis 

Aesthetics

Alopecia

Biologic Treatments for Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis 

Atopic Dermatitis 

Buy-and-Bill

COVID-19

Case-Based Roundtable

Chronic Hand Eczema

Drug Watch

Eczema

General Dermatology 

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Melasma

NP and PA

Pediatric Dermatology

Pigmentary Disorders 

Practice Management 

Precision Medicine and Biologics

Prurigo Nodularis

Emerging Therapies Plaque Psoriasis

Treatments for Plaque Psoriasis 

Psoriasis 

Psoriatic Arthritis 

Rare Disease

Rosacea 

Skin Cancer (Nonmelanoma)

Skin Cancer

Vitiligo

Wound Care

News

Media

Around the Practice

Between The Lines

Case-Based Peer Perspective

Clinical Case Collective

DermView

Expert Perspectives

Fellows Face Off

Frontline Forum

Medical World News

Patient Perspectives

Podcasts

Readout360

Recognize and Refer

Conferences

Conference Coverage

Conference Listing

Events

Publication

Dermatology Times

CME/CE

Resources

DermIQ

Interactive Tools

Job Board

Partner Perspectives

Perspectives in Dermatology

Polls

Editorial Advisory Board

Partners

Subscribe

Kaitlyn Bader is the assistant managing editor of 

 and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in June 2022. She attended Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in literary studies with minors in creative writing and film studies. Prior to health care news, Kaitlyn worked in industrial marketing. She enjoys cooking, reading, and tending to her house plants.

Articles

Asha Patel Shah, MD, MBA, FAAD, discusses recent research on retinol and retinoid bioactivity when layered with moisturizers highlighted at AAD 2025.

“Open Sandwich” Moisturization Regimen Does Not Affect Bioactivity of Retinols and Retinoids 

Marie Bosslett is the assistant editor of 

 and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in October 2024. She attended Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with minors in marketing and writing. When she’s not writing, Marie enjoys going to concerts, reading on the beach, and spending time with friends and family.

Participants from the parent DELTA 1 and 2 studies maintained their disease control and observed a decrease in pain and itch over 52 weeks of treatment.

DELTA 3 Showcases Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Delgocitinib for Chronic Hand Eczema

Maddi Hebebrand is an associate editor of 

and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in May 2024. She attended Baldwin Wallace University, studying Media Production and Film, and is now finishing her Masters in Digital Media through Ohio University. When she's not writing, Maddi loves to read, attend concerts and spend time with her family.

Researchers have identified elevated eosinophil levels as a potential marker for chronic urticaria in pediatric patients.

New Study Reveals Risk Factors for Persistent Urticaria

and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in February 2023. She attended Kent State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism with minors in public relations and creative writing. She enjoys making and listening to music, reading, and spending time with her cats, Astrid and Marceline.

At the 2025 AAD Annual Meeting, Alumis Inc. presented promising phase 2 STRIDE trial results for ESK-001, a TYK2 inhibitor showing sustained psoriasis improvements over 52 weeks.

ESK-001: A Conversation with Jörn Drappa, MD, PhD, of Alumis on Breakthrough Data and the Future of Psoriasis Treatment

About

Advertise

Contact Us

Do Not Sell My Information

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Dermatology Times and Multimedia Medical, LLC

Facebook

Linkedin

Topics

Acne

Pigmentary Disorders

Practice Management

Psoriasis

Psoriatic Arthritis

Rosacea

1rem

Authors

It effects most teenagers and can lead to mental distress. Here are 5 important facts about acne vulgaris in adolescents.

Acne vulgaris in teenagers

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Comparative Studies in AD

Panelists offer concluding insights and emphasize the critical role of comparative studies in advancing atopic dermatitis treatment strategies.

clinical

Video Series

A new survey revealed patterns in patient and provider satisfaction for seborrheic dermatitis treatment in the United States.

 The questionnaire explored disease burden, therapy misconceptions, and other perceptions of the current landscape. It was found that both groups are unsatisfied with current therapies and are looking to try new treatments that are more cost- and time-effective with better results for patients of all backgrounds. A national, cross-sectional survey conducted by the Harris Poll collected online responses from December 14, 2021, to January 19, 2022.

The patient survey lasted about 10 minutes, and all 300 respondents were aged ≥ 18 years with a clinical diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis in the United States. The average age was 40 years and 55% were male. Over 70% of patients considered their disease severity to be moderate. The mean symptom duration was 3.6 years. 

The clinician survey lasted about 12 minutes and included 601 practicing physicians (67%), nurse practitioners (10%), and physician’s assistants (24%) who saw more than one patient with seborrheic dermatitis a week. The mean number of years in practice was 3.1, treating a weekly average of 160 patients with all skin conditions.

On average, patients spend 34 minutes a day treating their seborrheic dermatitis with 5.9 different treatments a week (2.4 prescriptions, 2.1 over-the-counter, and 1.4 alternative methods). Clinicians underestimated the daily treatment time and believed it to be 16 minutes.

This costs about $650 a year, which only 19% of patients believed to be affordable. The highest average was spent on prescription medications ($300) with $190 on over-the-counter therapies and $160 on alternatives. According to other studies, the total annual cost for scalp treatments in the US is estimated to be at $300 million per year.

 Less than 25% of patients were “very satisfied” with the effectiveness of their prescription treatments. This rate was even lower in healthcare providers (8.7%). 

Over 60% of patients believe that current treatment options are too time-consuming while almost 90% are looking for a regimen with fewer therapies. Nearly all surveyed patients and providers acknowledged the difficulty and frustration of treating seborrheic dermatitis and are looking for new treatment methods to try. In particular, both groups are looking for rapid symptom relief rather than focusing on how the product feels or looks. Almost 90% of patients expressed that they would appreciate a therapy that can easily be incorporated into their existing hair care routine. Nearly all the surveyed clinicians agreed with this statement.

“These insights highlight the importance of a single, once-daily treatment option that can be used on multiple areas of the body,” the authors said.

According to patients, additional considerations in patients’ skin tone (81%) and cultural background (55%) are needed to meet needs and preferences when recommending products. Most health care providers also agreed that these factors play a role in what treatments they prescribe. It is worth noting that Black patients (10%) had the lowest percentage of satisfaction regarding how well their treatment fits into their routine.

The study does have some limitations, such as sampling and self-reporting biases. However, the population-based, weighted sampling strategy should be relatively balanced and represent the population as a whole. Future prospective research with larger sample sizes and different settings may provide more insight.

Current treatment options include antifungals, low-potency corticosteroids, and calcineurin inhibitors, which hope to reduce inflammation, itch, flaking, and erythema but can have low efficacy and local adverse effects.

 These survey results confirm that new seborrheic dermatitis therapies should effectively save time and prevent discomfort while considering diverse hair care routines and cultural practices.

1. Chovatiya R, Chang CH, Aldredge L, et al. Patient and healthcare provider perspectives on treatment patterns and patient satisfaction of seborrheic dermatitis in the United States. 

2025;36(1):2476576. doi:10.1080/09546634.2025.2476576

2. Manuel F, Ranganathan S. A new postulate on two stages of dandruff: a clinical perspective. 

 2011;3(1):3-6. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.82117

3. Borda LJ, Wikramanayake TC. Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff: A Comprehensive Review.

2015;3(2):10.13188/2373-1044.1000019. doi:10.13188/2373-1044.1000019

A recent survey in the United States examined patient and provider satisfaction with seborrheic dermatitis treatments, revealing dissatisfaction with current therapies. Both groups seek more cost-effective, time-efficient treatments with better outcomes. Patients spend significant time and money on treatments, yet satisfaction remains low. The survey highlighted the need for a single, once-daily treatment that accommodates diverse hair care routines and cultural practices. Current treatments, including antifungals and corticosteroids, often have limited efficacy and adverse effects. Future research should address these limitations and explore new therapeutic options.

According to a survey, both patients and clinicians are unsatisfied with the current therapeutic landscape and are looking for options that better fulfill patient needs.

Patients and Providers Seek More Effective, Time-Saving Treatments for Seborrheic Dermatitis

To stay up-to-date with the latest dermatology news, sign up to receive our 

Bridging the Gender Gap: Women Leading the Way

 in celebrating the women who make this field shine through their patient interactions, clinical insights, and research.

A Walk Through The AAD 2025 Poster Hall: The Must-See Research Shaping Dermatology

Discover the latest research from the AAD poster hall, compiled in one place for dermatology professionals.

Analyzing Current Procedures for Periorbital Hyperpigmentation

A comprehensive evaluation of therapies found that lasers were most effective with high rates of patient satisfaction.

Potential Treatments for TSW Identified in NIH Study

A pilot study revealed that mitochondrial complex I-blocking drugs, like metformin and berberine, improved TSW symptoms in most participants.

Thermus Thermophilus Fermentation Extract Can Treat Androgenic Alopecia

According to a clinical trial and in vitro study, TTFE can promote scalp health and hair growth by 96.88% while reducing inflammation.

Advancing Hidradenitis Suppurativa Care - Early Diagnosis, Biologic Therapies, and Multidisciplinary Approaches: Part 1

In part 1 of this Frontline Forum supplement, experts discuss the burden of HS, reducing diagnostic delays, and more.

The article highlights significant advancements and research in dermatology, focusing on gender leadership, innovative treatments, and emerging therapies. It celebrates women's contributions to dermatology, showcases pivotal research from the AAD 2025 poster hall, and evaluates effective procedures for periorbital hyperpigmentation. The article also discusses potential treatments for Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) and the efficacy of Thermus Thermophilus Fermentation Extract (TTFE) in treating androgenic alopecia. Additionally, it addresses the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary approaches in managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS).

Catch up on dermatology news, highlights, and insights from the past 24 hours.

Daily Derm Times: March 18, 2025

The discussion heralded what Lev-Tov described as the “golden age” of HS, marked by a surge in therapeutic innovations. Three FDA-approved biologics are currently available—bimekizumab (Bimzelx; UCB), adalimumab (Humira; AbbVie), and secukinumab (Cosentyx; Novartis)—and the pipeline for HS treatments is expanding rapidly. According to Lev-Tov, recent advancements include the following:

Multiple clinical trials are underway, with some nearing completion. These studies include both injectable and oral therapies, offering hope for diverse treatment options.

Real-world experiences suggest that combining biologics with other treatments, such as surgical interventions, enhances outcomes. Adjusting dosing frequencies, such as transitioning from 4-week to 2-week intervals, has also shown promise.

There is a pressing need for advancements in surgical techniques, wound care, and targeted pain management, which are areas that have yet to see significant innovation.

Lev-Tov urged pharmaceutical companies and regulatory authorities to provide flexible dosing options, allowing clinicians to tailor treatments to individual patient needs. This approach recognizes the variability in HS presentation and response to therapy.

Innovative digital tools such as the Papaya app, developed with input from key advisers Vivian Shi, MD, and Hsiao in collaboration with patients with HS, are empowering patients to track their pain and symptoms daily. Such tools enhance patient-clinician communication and facilitate more personalized care. Elias emphasized the importance of leveraging patient-driven organizations and online resources, such as HS Connect and Hope for HS, which fill critical gaps in support and education.

For clinicians, the HS Foundation’s website offers valuable resources, including templates to streamline prior authorization processes for both on-label and off-label treatments. These tools are instrumental in overcoming administrative hurdles and ensuring timely access to care.

Although clinical trials often report aggregate data, such as Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR), these metrics may not fully capture individual patient outcomes. Lev-Tov encouraged clinicians to interpret trial data with an understanding of their limitations and to consider real-world applications. Combining therapies and customizing treatment plans can often yield results that exceed expectations set by clinical trial benchmarks.

According to Elias and Lev-Tov, the explosion of research and innovation is transforming HS from a condition that once felt untreatable into one with a growing array of therapeutic options. However, challenges remain. Misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and gaps in surgical and wound care innovation highlight areas where continued focus is needed.

Biologic Therapies and Precision Medicine

Elias and Hamzavi, a board-certified dermatologist at Hamzavi Dermatology and Dermatology Specialists in Canton, Michigan, and president of the HS Foundation, discussed the evolving landscape of biologic therapies, precision medicine, surgical interventions, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in personalizing care for patients with HS. Elias first highlighted the growing interest in biologic-specific testing, aiming to tailor treatment regimens based on individual patient profiles. This approach seeks to determine the most effective biologic agent and dosing for each patient. Hamzavi elaborated on the progress in using trough levels of infliximab (Remicade; Janssen Biotech) and adalimumab—data commonly applied in gastroenterology—to refine HS treatment strategies. Monitoring these levels can help identify treatment failures, whether due to insufficient dosing or the development of drug-related antibodies.

However, challenges remain in translating these findings to HS. Although inflammatory bowel disease has established thresholds for these biomarkers, correlating them to HS-specific outcomes such as pain, drainage, and quality of life is still a work in progress. Hamzavi noted ongoing research into genetic markers and their role in disease pathophysiology, including keratinocyte growth and wound healing responses. Although precision biomedicine holds promise, widespread clinical application in HS may be years away.

Elias and Hamzavi also reviewed new biologic agents targeting B- and T-cell pathways, including antibodies tagged to CD38. Although these agents are in early research stages, they demonstrate the push toward more targeted therapies. According to Hamzavi, the critical question remains: Do these biomarkers translate into actionable data for real-world practice across diverse settings? Large-scale clinical trials will be essential to validate their use.

Hamzavi emphasized the potential of AI in advancing HS care. By synthesizing diverse inputs—such as patient history, genetic data, and simple laboratory tests—AI could categorize patients more effectively and predict therapeutic responses. He argued that AI might help bypass reliance on costly biomarkers by integrating readily available data to optimize treatment selection. However, he cautioned that any advancements must ultimately reduce patient harm and improve outcomes.

The current landscape of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) treatment is marked by significant advancements, including FDA-approved biologics and ongoing clinical trials exploring injectable and oral therapies. Combination therapies and nonmedication innovations are enhancing patient outcomes. Digital tools and patient-driven organizations are improving patient-clinician communication and support. Precision medicine and AI are being explored to personalize care, though challenges remain in translating research into practice. Emerging biologics and biomarkers show promise, but large-scale trials are needed to validate their real-world applicability.

In part 2 of this Frontline Forum supplement, experts discuss current and emerging treatments, digital tools and supports, and more.

Advancing Hidradenitis Suppurativa Care - Early Diagnosis, Biologic Therapies, and Multidisciplinary Approaches: Part 2

Optimizing Hidradenitis Suppurativa Management: From Current Challenges to Emerging Therapies and Future Perspectives

,” 5 experts led discussions to delve into the complexities of treating hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and recent advancements in therapeutic options to manage the burdensome condition. Merrick D. Elias, DO, FAAD; Hadar Lev-Tov, MD, FAAD; Iltefat Hamzavi, MD, FAAD; Jennifer Hsiao, MD, FAAD; and Rani Cooper, MD, FAAD, shared insights on the quality-of-life effects on patients with HS, increased awareness, support systems, biologic advancements, treatment expectations, and more. Each panelist provided perspectives from their respective combined experiences, offering a thorough exploration into improving the lives of patients with HS.

Elias, a board-certified dermatologist at Elias Dermatology in Pembroke Pines, Florida, and Lev-Tov, a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of clinical dermatology and cutaneous surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida, kicked off the panel discussion by reviewing the challenging burden for patients with HS. Lev-Tov described HS as one of the “cruelest” skin diseases due to its early onset and severe impact on patients’ lives. Affecting between 0.1% and 1% of the global population, HS typically manifests during young adulthood, disrupting key milestones such as education, career development, and relationships. The disease’s physical symptoms—painful abscesses, scarring, and sinus tract formation—are compounded by significant mental health comorbidities, including depression, anxiety, and elevated suicide rates.

From a health care perspective, HS demands attention due to its prevalence and complexity. “One of the contributing factors here is the delay to diagnosis,” Lev-Tov said. Patients often face delays of 7 to 10 years before receiving a diagnosis, during which time irreversible tissue damage may occur. Lev-Tov emphasized that early diagnosis within the “window of opportunity” can significantly improve outcomes given the advancements in medical therapies.

Raising Awareness to Reduce Diagnostic Delays

One of the core challenges in HS management and treatment is increasing awareness among health care providers and the broader community, according to the panelists. Misdiagnosis is often common, as nondermatology clinicians may unknowingly mistake HS for abscesses. Elias advocated for collaborative education efforts, such as grand rounds in local surgery departments and lectures at medical societies. These initiatives aim to equip nondermatology clinicians with the knowledge to identify and refer HS cases accurately.

Integrating HS into medical school curricula was proposed as a strategy to familiarize future clinicians with this high-burden disease. Lev-Tov highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, noting that HS touches multiple specialties, including endocrinology, gastroenterology, and pain management. Supporting organizations such as the HS Foundation, which advocates for patients and provides educational resources, is crucial in amplifying these efforts.

The recent video series on hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) management featured five experts discussing the complexities of treating this challenging condition. They highlighted the significant impact of HS on patients' quality of life, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and support systems. The panelists addressed the importance of early diagnosis to prevent irreversible damage and improve outcomes. They advocated for educational initiatives to reduce diagnostic delays and proposed integrating HS into medical curricula. Interdisciplinary collaboration and support from organizations like the HS Foundation were deemed essential for advancing HS management.

Recent research conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has identified topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) as a condition distinct from eczema, primarily caused by elevated levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a form of vitamin B3. This study, led by scientists from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), highlights potential treatment options aimed at reducing NAD+ levels. The findings, published in the 

, may pave the way for targeted clinical trials and improved diagnostic criteria for TSW.

“Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have determined that dermatitis resulting from topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is distinct from eczema and is caused by an excess of an essential chemical compound in the body," a release from NIH stated.

Dermatitis, a broad term describing skin inflammation, can arise from various conditions, including eczema and TSW. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a prevalent disorder affecting 10 to 30% of children and 2 to 10% of adults annually in the United States. Topical steroids, primarily glucocorticoids or topical corticosteroids, have been the first-line treatment for eczema due to their efficacy and general tolerability.

However, long-term use of topical steroids followed by cessation can lead to TSW, a poorly understood condition characterized by skin redness, burning sensations, thermal dysregulation, itching, and peeling. These symptoms often overlap with eczema, making differential diagnosis challenging.

To differentiate TSW from eczema, NIAID researchers analyzed data from a previous survey involving 1,889 adults reporting eczema-like symptoms. Participants were classified into self-reported TSW and non-TSW groups, enabling researchers to identify distinct features of TSW.

A subsequent pilot study included 16 individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with TSW, 10 individuals with eczema without TSW symptoms, and 11 healthy controls. Analysis of blood serum and skin samples revealed that NAD+ levels were significantly elevated in individuals with TSW, whereas those with eczema or without skin disease exhibited normal NAD+ levels.

Further investigation using cultured skin cells and a mouse model demonstrated that NAD+ production was stimulated by topical steroid application, contributing to inflammatory responses. This finding suggested that blocking NAD+ formation could alleviate TSW symptoms.

Researchers explored the therapeutic potential of mitochondrial complex I-blocking drugs, including metformin and berberine, to counteract excessive NAD+ production. In a preliminary study assessing subjective responses among participants using these drugs for three to five months, "most participants reported improvement in TSW symptoms." These findings suggest that mitochondrial complex I inhibition could be a viable treatment strategy for TSW.

Diagnostic Criteria and Future Implications

Based on their findings, the researchers established provisional diagnostic criteria for healthcare providers to identify TSW. Patients who discontinue topical steroids and exhibit characteristic symptoms may be diagnosed with TSW. The study authors emphasize that further research is needed to determine whether all individuals with TSW experience NAD+ overproduction or if additional factors contribute to the condition.

"The results of this study may help practitioners identify TSW in patients and work towards developing safe and effective treatments," the researchers stated. Furthermore, defining diagnostic criteria will enhance the understanding of TSW prevalence and improve assessments of topical steroid effects.

The NIH study represents a significant advancement in distinguishing TSW from eczema and identifying potential treatments targeting NAD+ metabolism. While further clinical trials are necessary to validate these findings, this research provides a foundation for improved diagnosis and management of TSW. By addressing the underlying biochemical mechanisms, healthcare providers may be better equipped to support patients experiencing TSW, leading to enhanced therapeutic outcomes.

Topical steroid withdrawal diagnostic criteria defined by NIH researchers. News release. National Institutes of Health. Published March 14, 2025. Accessed March 18, 2025. 

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/topical-steroid-withdrawal-diagnostic-criteria-defined-nih-researchers

Nemeth V, Syed HA, Evans J. Eczema. [Updated 2024 Mar 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): 

 Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538209/

Recent NIH research distinguishes topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) from eczema, attributing TSW to elevated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels. The study, led by NIAID scientists, suggests potential treatments targeting NAD+ reduction, such as mitochondrial complex I-blocking drugs like metformin and berberine. Provisional diagnostic criteria for TSW have been established, aiding in differential diagnosis and treatment development. Further research is needed to confirm NAD+ overproduction as a universal TSW factor. This advancement may enhance TSW diagnosis, management, and therapeutic outcomes.

Keshav Patel, MS4

Articles

Latest Updated Articles