Impact of Newer Acne Treatments on Clinical Practice

One of the most impactful recent developments in acne treatment has been the introduction of a narrow-spectrum oral antibiotic, which has significantly influenced prescribing practices. Its uniqueness lies not just in the drug itself, but in the fact that it's currently the only approved agent of its kind for acne. This specificity supports antibiotic stewardship efforts by reducing the risk of microbial resistance and minimizing disruption to the gut microbiome. While some argue that oral antibiotics can be avoided entirely in favor of isotretinoin, spironolactone, or topicals, not every patient responds well to these alternatives. The diverse presentations of acne demand a flexible treatment approach tailored to individual needs.

In the topical treatment space, a fixed-dose triple combination of adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, and clindamycin has emerged as a notable advancement. While these ingredients have been used individually or layered together, the key difference with the new product lies in the vehicle formulation, which allows all 3 active ingredients to work synergistically. Clinical trial data show that this formulation has achieved the most effective outcomes seen in topical acne treatment to date. It has also proven useful in managing emerging challenges, such as acne induced by newer systemic therapies such as Janus kinase inhibitors, offering a topical alternative that allows patients to stay on their primary treatment.

Advances in procedural dermatology have also begun to play a more prominent role in acne care, especially for addressing long-term effects such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, and postinflammatory erythema. New laser technologies targeting sebaceous glands and resurfacing options are expanding the treatment toolbox. Although not all dermatology practices offer these procedures, staying informed allows clinicians to guide patients toward the appropriate providers. This integration of medicinal and aesthetic therapies is helping close the gap in comprehensive acne care, offering better long-term outcomes for patients.