Acne vulgaris, a common chronic inflammatory disease, has a multifactorial pathogenesis. Despite the availability of various acne treatments, more than current options may be required because of a lack of efficacy, limited tolerability or cost burden to patients. The present study highlights recently approved topical acne treatments and those currently in clinical trials. 

• Novel formulations of tretinoin, tazarotene and minocycline are modifications and improvements to existing products. 
• Trifarotene, a novel fourth-generation retinoid, has demonstrated improved tolerability than existing topical retinoids. 
• Clascoterone, a novel first-in-class antiandrogen, topically addresses the hormonal etiology of acne. 
• The late-phase clinical trials pipeline includes agents with bactericidal and anti-sebum mechanisms. 

Although it is apparent that acne treatments continue to evolve, it is vital to recognize the need for further comparative studies among new and existing agents to determine optimal treatment algorithms that address all the niches: safety, efficacy as well as cost-effective care.

Source: Drake L, Reyes-Hadsall S, Barbieri JS, et al. New developments in topical acne therapy. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2022; 23(2):125-36.