Acne and Rosacea Pearls With Jim Del Rosso, DO, FAAD

Jim Del Rosso, DO, FAAD, clinical researcher in Las Vegas, Nevada, caught up with Dermatology Times at the 17th Annual American Acne and Rosacea Society (AARS) Networking Reception and shed light on the evolving landscape of acne and rosacea treatment, emphasizing the importance of a nuanced and individualized approach. With a wealth of experience and a renewed leadership role in the AARS, Del Rosso is at the forefront of advancing dermatological care and will also share clinical pearls for acne and rosacea treatment during the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting in San Diego, California March 8-12.

In addressing the complexities of acne and rosacea, Del Rosso underscored the need to go beyond traditional therapies. "It's more than just the medications," he noted. "We have some new devices and more and more that's coming in in terms of skincare." However, he emphasizes that the integration of these innovations into existing treatments requires careful consideration.

Concerns about antibiotic resistance in acne treatment have prompted Del Rosso to explore alternative options. "If we want to get rid of antibiotics in acne, we have to come up with other options," he said, recognizing the urgency of finding viable substitutes. While acknowledging the existence of potential alternatives, he acknowledges that a comprehensive solution is still in progress.

Del Rosso urges a critical examination of newer therapies, emphasizing that each must be evaluated on its own merit. "We have to look at the merit of each of those," he stresses. The consideration of cost and accessibility is crucial, but he advocates for an open mind, encouraging a balanced view of both generic and branded treatments based on their effectiveness and patient compliance.

Reflecting on his role in the AARS, Del Rosso discussed the challenges faced during his initial presidency. "There had been a glitch with how the society was filed and we couldn't do a lot of things. There were certain grants that we were not able to get. So for about three-fourths of my presidency, I was actually handcuffed," he explained, and is grateful for colleagues to overcome those obstacles in the beginning. With excitement, he revealed his second opportunity as president, expressing enthusiasm for the society's growth and the inclusion of new members and dermatologists.

The society's commitment to research grants remains unwavering. Del Rosso applauded recent winners like Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, of Yale University, highlighting the importance of supporting individuals conducting groundbreaking research. He aims to collaborate with renowned colleagues to delve into specific areas, such as skin of color, antibiotic resistance, and dermatological guidelines.

In addressing the controversial recent acne guidelines released by the American Academy of Dermatology last month, Del Rosso sees an opportunity for collective improvement. "We can have conversations and collectively improve the management of acne," he suggested, emphasizing the collaborative approach to enhancing dermatological practices.Never forgetting the significance of rosacea education, Del Rosso will strive to keep the conversation alive. He stressed the need to involve more residents in acne and rosacea research, ensuring the continuity of education and addressing the evolving needs of the field.

Del Rosso concluded, "There's a lot on the plate, but it's not only up to me." He emphasized the need to tap into the expertise of fellow dermatologists and researchers, fostering a collaborative environment to meet the diverse challenges in the realm of acne and rosacea.