Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with various treatment limitations. This review discusses emerging treatments for acne, including clascoterone, sarecycline, trifarotene, and novel lotion formulations of tretinoin and tazarotene. 

Spironolactone and isotretinoin also show promise as alternative treatments. However, more head-to-head studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness. Lotion formulations of tretinoin and tazarotene offer similar mechanisms of action with potentially fewer side effects. Isotretinoins lab monitoring requirements may be simplified without compromising patient safety. 

Disparities in treatment interruptions and underuse of systemic therapies among non-White patients and women highlight the need for addressing barriers to acne treatment. Significant advancements have been made in acne therapeutics, focusing on efficacy and tolerability. Future studies should compare the effectiveness of different modalities that address acne.

Source:  Han JJ, Faletsky A, Barbieri JS, Mostaghimi A. New acne therapies and updates on use of spironolactone and isotretinoin: a narrative review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2021;11(1):79-91.