One Acne™: A holistic management approach to improve overall skin quality and treatment outcomes in acne with or without sensitive skin

Abstract

Acne and sensitive skin can take a profound toll on patients' well-being, which can be exacerbated if the conditions are experienced together. This narrative review aims to identify appropriate treatments to facilitate a holistic management approach to acne (One Acne™), sensitive skin, and acne-induced sequelae and describe the role of treatments in improving skin quality. Topical retinoids are considered the preferred first-line option for acne treatment by dermatologists, either as monotherapy or in combination with other treatments, because of their ability to target various aspects of the disease. Tretinoin, trifarotene, adapalene, and tazarotene have all been assessed in clinical studies for managing acne-associated scarring, with varying success, with the latter three reported to improve skin quality. Moreover, some corrective procedures, e.g., injectable non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) fillers, have proven effective for treating acne scarring. Both treatment types may complement each other to provide optimal treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction, as observed in several patients receiving concomitant treatment with NASHA fillers/topical trifarotene. Adjunctive use of cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection-containing ingredients such as vitamin B3, glycerin, or pro-vitamin B3 may also complement drug/corrective treatments to reduce skin irritation and risk of scarring, as well as improve skin hydration, tone, and overall appearance. This narrative review highlights that comprehensive skincare regimens should be used throughout acne patients' journeys to reduce treatment-related irritation, improve treatment outcomes, adherence, and satisfaction, and enhance overall skin quality. Patients with sensitive skin should choose tailored skincare products to maintain skin barrier integrity and restore skin function.

Keywords: acne vulgaris; aesthetics; holistic skin health; patient satisfaction; retinoids; scarring; skincare; treatment outcomes.

Figure 1

The journey of acne sufferers was compiled following an analysis of 28 primary research reports to assess a range of stakeholders' beliefs, feelings, and actions throughout their journey. *Stakeholders included teenagers (12–18 years of age), young adults (18–24 years of age), adults (25+ years of age), parents, and HCPs. Cx, consumer; HCP, healthcare professional; JPAC, Japan, Pacific, Asia, and China; OTC, over‐the‐counter; Rx, prescription; US, United States.