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. 2024 Nov 17;64(4):637–646. doi: 10.1111/ijd.17546

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

Leon Kircik 1, Jerry Tan 2,3, Edward (Ted) Lain 4, Katie Beleznay 5, Rajeev Chavda 6, Nadège Lachmann 6, Tjinta Brinkhuizen 7, Hilary Baldwin 8,9, Alison M Layton 10,11,✉
PMCID: PMC11931094  PMID: 39551973

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, retinoids, holistic skin health, treatment outcomes, patient satisfaction, aesthetics, skincare, scarring

Introduction

The physical and emotional effects of dermatologic conditions can profoundly affect patients' psychological well‐being and quality of life. In particular, acne can significantly impact its sufferers, which is thought to be responsible for a greater disease burden than psoriasis, cellulitis, and melanoma. 1 According to the 2019 Global Burden of Disease study, acne is the greatest dermatologic cause of burden in individuals aged 10–24. 2 Quantified by the percentage of disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs), this is an increase of 41.5% since 1990 (1.1–1.6 DALYs). 2 Additionally, another global burden survey found that adults and children with combined facial and truncal acne were twice as likely to report a “very large” or “extremely large” impact on their quality of life than those with only facial acne. 3 This has implications for patients' daily lives, with truncal acne sufferers spending a substantial amount of time on their daily skincare routine (60 min/day). 3 Self‐management skincare options such as hydrocolloid patches have the potential to be a convenient and effective approach for managing mild‐to‐moderate facial acne, 4 and could help reduce the time spent on daily skincare routines.

Additionally, acne sequelae such as atrophic scarring and acne‐induced hyperpigmentation (AIH) can exacerbate the burden that sufferers already experience. 5 Many patients report experiencing stigma because of their acne and subsequent scarring, with 37% reporting instances of verbal and/or physical bullying because of their sequelae. 6 Patients may experience embarrassment and reduced self‐esteem, so they look for products that help to manage or cover up their visible lesions. 6 According to one survey, over 80% of patients with a Dermatology Life Quality Index over 10 (indicating their skin condition has a “very” or “extremely” large effect on their life) routinely used cosmetic camouflage to hide their acne scarring. 6

Sensitive skin, another highly prevalent dermatologic condition, affects approximately 60%–70% of women and 50%–60% of men globally. 7 A condition that has been historically ambiguous in nature, sensitive skin is characterized by specific sensory reactions, such as stinging or burning, that are induced by contactors and/or environmental factors, often without visible clinical manifestations. 7 , 8 One survey study reported that individuals with sensitive skin experienced a significantly greater burden compared with those without the condition (N = 100; P < 0.001). 9

Additionally, some patients may experience multiple dermatologic conditions simultaneously, exacerbating the overall burden. A skin‐profiling survey study found that 92% of patients with acne reported sensitive skin on their face, and 85% reported sensitive skin on their body. 10

Despite the well‐documented burden of both acne and sensitive skin, there is still a lapse in communication between healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients in several key management areas, particularly for acne, as identified by the Personalizing Acne: Consensus of Experts (PACE) panel. 11 Notably, facilitating clear and effective education regarding patients' treatment may significantly improve compliance, as patients were four times more likely to follow HCP directions when the role of skincare products was explained versus when no explanation was given. 12 Moreover, it is vital for HCPs to provide patients with comprehensive and reliable information about skincare products that complement and enhance the efficacy of acne therapies such as drug treatments (e.g., topical retinoids) and corrective procedures (e.g., injectable non‐animal stabilized hyaluronic acid [NASHA] fillers). This is particularly important considering the often misguided but increasingly sought‐after advice given by social media influencers. 13 Some dermatologists have already established themselves as social media influencers to provide accurate and reliable patient information. 14 One study found that acne‐related content created by physician influencers had higher engagement than content created by private companies or non‐physician influencers, suggesting that consumers generally seek and trust health information from medical professionals when researching their condition and skincare options. 14

The Cleanse, Treat, Moisturize, Protect (CTMP®) regimen, as conceptualized by Goh et al., that utilizes cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection (CMP) can be used to complement drug treatments and corrective procedures (T). 15 When addressing the needs of patients with acne, we introduce the concept of One Acne™—an approach tailored for those suffering from this condition. By using a holistic management approach such as One Acne™, patients may experience improved treatment outcomes and enhanced overall skin quality throughout their acne treatment journey. 15 This article reviews the feasibility and efficacy of the One Acne™ approach.

Methods

A search was conducted to identify various aspects of current literature on using a holistic skincare regimen to manage acne and/or sensitive skin. Establishing the pathogenetic differences between acne‐prone/sensitive skin and “normal” skin provided insight into how cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection—when used as an adjunct for drug treatments or corrective procedures—can enhance overall skin quality and treatment outcomes in patients with acne and/or sensitive skin.

PubMed was used to search MEDLINE articles published between January 1, 2000, and February 16, 2024, using terms designed to review aspects relating to the use of cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection to complement acne and/or sensitive skin treatment (e.g., “cleansers,” “moisturizers,” “photoprotection,” “pharmacodynamics,” “sensitive skin,” “acne,” “esthetic”). Additional searches were performed from the resulting 2323 articles to remove duplicated publications that did not contribute to the research questions or had no abstract available until 37 references remained.

Evidence

Skin profiling of acne‐prone and sensitive skin

Understanding the profile of acne‐prone and sensitive skin is vital for developing effective management strategies such as One Acne™. A global skin‐profiling survey found that 56% of participants have a greater prevalence of acne on the face compared with other parts of the body and that individuals with oily skin are more prone to developing acne. 10 Further research has identified several contributing factors, including increased keratinization and cornification of sebaceous follicular ducts, excessive sebum production via dysfunctional sebocyte differentiation, dysbiosis of the skin microbiome, and loss of Cutibacterium acnes diversity. 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 These factors, alongside a heightened inflammatory response, contribute to the impaired skin barrier integrity observed in acne‐prone skin, which may be responsible for comedone formation and increased skin sensitivity. 17 , 18 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 Additionally, the duration and severity of inflammation may contribute to the atrophy of sebaceous gland structures and, consequently, increase the risk of acne scarring, highlighting the need for early intervention using acne drug treatments to prevent or reduce the risk of scar development. 24 , 25

Similarly, impaired skin barrier function is implicated in sensitive skin; reflectance confocal microscopy has shown significant differences between sensitive skin and healthy controls in “disarranged honeycomb patterns,” “honeycomb structure depths,” and “spongiform edema” proportions (P < 0.05). 26 This can facilitate the penetration of irritants and allergens, increase trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL), and heighten the sensitivity of nerve endings to neurogenic inflammation. 7 , 27 , 28 Additionally, inflammation in sensitive skin is related to increased levels of inflammatory PGE‐2, which can induce further inflammation and excessive skin cell division in high concentrations. 29 , 30

Patients with both acne and sensitive skin may experience a greater risk of skin irritation versus those with only acne, which can manifest as itching, redness, and burning. 10 These findings highlight the need for a multi‐faceted management approach to address the underlying causes and symptom burden. Tailored skincare products and prescription treatments can improve treatment tolerability, enhance patient satisfaction, and ultimately improve treatment outcomes. 5 However, despite ~40% of sufferers having been prescribed a treatment to manage their acne, only 11% of these were also prescribed a skincare regimen (e.g., moisturizers, cleansers) to support their overall skin health during acne treatment. 10

One Acne™ Treat (T): Topical drug treatments for acne management

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) 2024 acne guidelines consider retinoids such as adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene, and trifarotene as fundamental among topical acne treatments as they target various aspects of the disease, e.g., comedones, inflammation, and dyspigmentation. 31 Alongside treating active acne, trifarotene, adapalene, tretinoin, and tazarotene have all been assessed as monotherapies for preventing and managing acne‐associated scarring in a clinical trial setting. 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 Trifarotene was well tolerated and showed promising results in a large phase 4 study (N = 121), with significantly reduced total atrophic acne scar counts compared with vehicle within 24 weeks (mean absolute change from baseline count: −6.2 vs. −2.8; P < 0.0001), and statistical significance established as early as Week 2 (P = 0.001). 32 Patients also reported a greater reduction in the severity of active acne and atrophic acne scars with trifarotene compared with vehicle (−3.2 vs. −2.5 and − 3.0 vs. −2.3, respectively). 32 Post hoc analyses demonstrated that trifarotene significantly reduced atrophic acne scar counts compared with vehicle across all age groups, sexes, and Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I–IV. 37 Significant reductions were also observed in individuals categorized as White or Asian; however, while improvements were observed in Fitzpatrick skin types V–VI, and individuals categorized as Black, these differences were not statistically significant. 37 Beyond its efficacy in scarring, Alexis et al. investigated the efficacy of trifarotene in combination with a skincare regimen for treating AIH (N = 63), with trifarotene significantly improving AIH overall disease severity compared with vehicle at Week 12 (P = 0.03), but with comparable scores by Week 24. 38 Treatment with adapalene also demonstrated improvements in skin texture and atrophic scarring, as assessed by global scarring grade and investigator/subject global assessments, in 50% of patients within 20 weeks of treatment initiation in a phase 2 study (N = 20). 33 Early studies of tretinoin (N = 21 and N = 11) demonstrated marked size reductions of hypertrophic scars and keloids after daily application, establishing retinoids as a key component of the acne armamentarium. 34 , 35 Moreover, treatment outcomes with once‐daily home application of tazarotene were found to be comparable with invasive microneedling for the management of acne‐associated scarring in a prospective, randomized clinical trial (N = 36). 36

These topical retinoids have also been investigated for their effects on overall skin quality improvement. During a gene expression profiling study, trifarotene was found to improve skin hydration through the activation of aquaporin 3 and peptidyl arginine deiminase expression, as well as downregulate matrix metalloproteinases to reduce the degradation of elastic fibers and maintain skin elasticity, both of which could contribute to improved skin quality. 39 Additionally, TEWL, skin hydration, general skin tone, and number of wrinkles were significantly improved in patients with cutaneous photoaging after treatment with adapalene (P < 0.05), assessed quantitatively using systems to measure complexion (VISIA® Complexion Analysis System) and skin elasticity (Cutometer MPA 850®). 40 Daily application of tazarotene reduced the severity of fine wrinkles and AIH compared with vehicle treatment in a randomized, parallel‐group study where evaluators assessed response to treatment on a 7‐point scale (N = 349). 41 Topical tretinoin has been assessed and subsequently approved by the FDA for the palliation of wrinkles, mottled hyperpigmentation, and tactile roughness in photodamaged facial skin. 42 In post hoc analyses, both tretinoin and tazarotene demonstrated efficacy for reducing AIH, with varying degrees of improvement observed across ethnic groups (e.g., Hispanic patients experienced greater improvements in AIH following tretinoin treatment than Asian patients). 43

One Acne™ Treat (T): Corrective procedures for the treatment of acne and/or sensitive skin

Some corrective procedures have proven to be effective additions to the treatment armamentarium for various dermatologic conditions, including acne and sensitive skin. In a study of patients with sensitive skin (N = 226), a multifunctional laser photoelectric platform and topical moisturizer as adjuvant to oral hydroxychloroquine led to a significantly greater improvement in symptoms versus hydroxychloroquine alone (P < 0.05). 23 The study suggests that the laser enhances epidermal penetration for swifter and greater delivery of the moisturizer, providing immediate soothing and anti‐inflammatory relief. 23 A novel 1726 nm infrared diode laser device has also been assessed for its ability to treat mild‐to‐severe acne in adult patients (N = 17) by selectively targeting sebum in the sebaceous glands. 44 The laser reduced the total inflammatory lesion count by 52% within the first month, and although all patients experienced mild erythema, the treatment was well tolerated overall. 44

Furthermore, an interventional study showed that NASHA fillers were effective and well tolerated for treating moderate‐to‐severe atrophic acne scarring, with treatment outcomes continuously improving until study completion at Week 36 (N = 12). 45 Adverse events were primarily mild‐to‐moderate, treatment‐related, and expected. 45 Hyaluronic acid injections may contribute to soft‐tissue augmentation and improved skin quality, including managing acne scarring, by stimulating collagen production. 46 , 47 This may be achieved in several different ways—through the mechanical stretching of fibroblasts, stimulation of growth factors, or the inhibition of collagen breakdown. 46 , 47

Drug treatments and corrective procedures may complement each other to provide optimal treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. A sequential approach to acne management involving topical trifarotene followed by NASHA injections showed effective improvements in the appearance of acne scars, as well as in overall skin quality, e.g., elasticity, tone, and hydration. 48

Additionally, chemical peels and ablative lasers are recommended for managing acne scarring and skin aging for all skin types, including those with photodamaged skin and/or skin of color, because they are deemed noninvasive. 49 , 50 However, proper pre‐ (e.g., UV protection, retinoids, skin‐brightening agents) and post‐treatment skincare (e.g., light‐hydrating moisturizers, broad‐spectrum UV protection, avoiding sweating to support wound healing) should be used concomitantly to enhance outcomes and reduce downtime (wound‐healing period). 49

One Acne™ Cleanse, Moisturize, Protect (CMP): Skincare products to improve skin quality

An expert panel recently defined skin quality into four distinct and measurable domains – texture (e.g., pores, lines, scars), discoloration (e.g., redness, pigmentation, dullness), firmness (e.g., laxity), and hydro‐lipid balance (e.g., dryness, oiliness). 51 Dermocosmetics show promise in enhancing most, if not all, of these skin quality categories. While many clinical trials incorporate some form of CMP alongside active acne treatments, the specific contributions of these products are not the primary focus. 23 , 32 , 33 , 36 , 38 , 40 , 41 , 44 However, the observed improvements in treatment outcomes in control groups prompt the tentative hypothesis that CMP can independently contribute to positive treatment outcomes. 32 , 41

Understanding the mechanism of action behind these observed improvements can enable HCPs to recommend the most suitable products to their patients for concomitant use alongside therapies. For example, cleansers should effectively remove sebum and debris from the skin's surface while preserving its natural intercellular lipid integrity and ensuring optimal moisturization, with lipid‐free cleansers thought to be optimal for acne‐prone skin as they are associated with a lower risk of skin irritation and a near‐physiological stratum corneum pH. 52 Similarly, moisturizers have been shown to repair damaged skin by restoring stratum corneum integrity, increasing skin hydration, reducing TEWL and susceptibility to irritation, and improving overall skin appearance. 27 , 53 , 54 , 55 , 56 To reduce skin irritation, the PACE panel identified that cleansers should be used twice daily, contain a well‐tolerated surfactant, and be noncomedogenic, while moisturizers should be light‐textured, noncomedogenic, and lipid‐free. 5 The use of photoprotection may reduce the likelihood of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exacerbating active acne and causing AIH or erythema, as well as improve treatment adherence, conceal lesions (if using tinted sunscreen), and decrease inflammation. 57 , 58

Our review has found that specific ingredients commonly found in CMP products can effectively address various skin concerns that are relevant to patients with acne with or without sensitive skin, as presented in Table 1. For example, the plant‐derived retinol alternative bakuchiol has demonstrated efficacy in improving skin smoothness, clarity, radiance, hydration, and overall appearance in patients with sensitive skin.54 In an in‐vitro study, the active ingredient Sensiline® Complex (CECI–Innovation and Consumer Studies Center, Barueri/SP and Hypermarcas S/A [Mantecorp Skincare]; consisting of bisabolol, hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone, and pentylene glycol 4‐5‐butylcyclohexanol) decreased levels of PGE‐2, a marker associated with sensitive skin, by 66.4%. 29

Table 1.

Recommended properties of cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection to improve treatment outcomes and satisfaction in patients with acne and/or sensitive skin

Cleansers
Intended effect on skin Property/Ingredient
Reduces skin irritation Lipid‐free, 52 pH‐balanced, well‐tolerated surfactant
Reduces risk of comedone development Noncomedogenic
Improves skin hydration Bakuchiol, 54 Ceramides, 59 Vitamin B3 (through de novo synthesis of ceramides), 60 , 61 Pro‐vitamin B3, 62 Glycerin, 63 Hyaluronic acid 64 , 65
Improves skin barrier function Ceramides 59 , Vitamin B3 60 , 61
Soothes disrupted skin Vitamin B3 60 , 61
Enhances overall skin appearance Bakuchiol, 54 Vitamin B3 60 , 61
Improves skin tolerance to active ingredients (e.g., via promoting a reduced inflammatory response) SensC, a Bakuchiol 54
Augments soft tissue and stimulates collagen/elastin production Hyaluronic acid 64 , 65
Moisturizers
Reduces skin irritation Lipid free, 52 Light‐textured
Reduces risk of comedone development Noncomedogenic
Improves skin hydration Bakuchiol, 54 Ceramides, 59 Vitamin B3 (through de novo synthesis of ceramides), 60 , 61 Pro‐vitamin B3, 62 Glycerin, 63 Hyaluronic acid 64 , 65
Improves skin barrier function Ceramides, 59 Vitamin B3 60 , 61
Soothes disrupted skin Vitamin B3 60 , 61
Enhances overall skin appearance Bakuchiol, 54 Vitamin B3 60 , 61
Improves skin tolerance to active ingredients (e.g., via promoting a reduced inflammatory response) SensC, a Bakuchiol 54
Augments soft tissue and stimulates collagen/elastin production Hyaluronic acid 64 , 65
Photoprotection
Reduces risk of AIH and/or treatment‐induced photosensitivity Minimum SPF 30, 5 , 66 , 67 , UV‐A and high‐energy visible, light protective 5 , 65
Reduces skin irritation Light‐textured
Reduces risk of comedone development Noncomedogenic
Improves skin hydration Glycerin, 63 Hyaluronic acid 64 , 65
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a

Contains bisabolol, hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone, pentylene glycol 4‐5‐butylcyclohexanol.

AIH, acne‐induced hyperpigmentation; SPF, sun protection factor; UV, ultraviolet.

Vitamin B3 (niacinamide), commonly used in dermo‐cosmetic products, has been demonstrated to increase glucosylceramide and sphingomyelin levels, as well as stimulate the synthesis of ceramides by keratinocytes in patients with dry skin. 60 Vitamin B3 is also thought to combat skin dryness that can develop following topical retinoid treatment by attenuating the overexpression of aquaporin‐3 through the inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase. 68 Additionally, vitamin B3 is thought to soothe disrupted skin by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. 61 It is also thought to enhance skin barrier function and smooth skin tone by upregulating ceramide and filaggrin synthesis and inhibiting melanosome transfer to disrupt the pigmentation process, respectively. 61 , 69

Skincare products containing ceramides can exogenously replenish natural skin ceramides to improve barrier function, reduce TEWL, and maintain stratum corneum hydration. 56 , 59 Other widely used ingredients in dermo‐cosmetic products, pro‐vitamin B3 and glycerin, can reduce TEWL to increase hydration and keep skin moisturized. 62 , 63 However, hyaluronic acid is a prime component of skincare products because it improves skin hydration by enhancing water‐retaining aspects of the skin barrier, stimulating collagen and elastic production, and augmenting soft tissue. 64 , 65 Topical hyaluronic acid as an adjunct to fractional laser treatment was also found to significantly enhance acne scar improvement and patient satisfaction vs. fractional laser treatment alone (N = 242; P < 0.0001). 70

Dysfunction in various components of the epidermal barrier, such as stratum corneum lipids, natural moisturizing factors, corneocyte maturation, desquamation, and the microbiome, can cause the skin to become dry, flaky, or sensitive. 71 The One Acne™ approach emphasizes selecting CMP products tailored to individual acne‐prone and sensitive skin needs. This is particularly important as research shows that nearly 75% of patients with acne do not prioritize specialized formulations when choosing skincare products. 10

Further individualizing treatment plans and skincare recommendations to account for the diversity of patient populations is also crucial, as ethnicity, skin type, age, and gender can all influence treatment outcomes and adherence. Patients prone to irritation and sequelae development—for example, those from an Asian background or those with sensitive skin or darker Fitzpatrick types—should adopt a One Acne™ treatment approach when initiating a retinoid or potentially irritating topical treatment. 72 , 73 This approach would incorporate ingredients that restore skin barrier function (e.g., vitamin B3, ceramides) to alleviate skin irritation and aid the lesion healing process. 72 , 73 Patients with acne should also prioritize using broad‐spectrum photoprotection with a minimum SPF of 30 to prevent and treat AIH, particularly among those with darker Fitzpatrick skin types. 58 For these patients, sunscreen that is protective against UV‐A and high‐energy visible light is also recommended, as darker Fitzpatrick skin types are more prone to hyperpigmentation induced by UV‐A and visible light than by UV‐B radiation. 58 , 66

Although pediatric acne is uncommon, nonprescription products and skincare are pivotal for its management as many drug treatments are not approved for use in patients under 9 years old, and oral isotretinoin is commonly reserved for severe acne in adolescents. 74 Cleansers and moisturizers that contain or promote the synthesis of ceramides can alleviate dryness and irritation; however, additional research is warranted to clarify their specific role in pediatric acne management. 74 , 75 Furthermore, skin is thought to become less hydrated, less elastic, more permeable, and more prone to irritation as it ages 76 ; therefore, mature patients with acne may benefit from lipid‐free, pH‐balanced skincare products that contain ingredients such as ceramides, vitamin B3, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.

Gender differences may also play a role in skincare recommendations. 77 Men often experience higher sebum production and may benefit from sebum‐regulating, lipid‐free, and non‐comedogenic products. 77 Women may experience hormonal shifts that affect skin thickness, potentially impairing barrier function and causing dryness 77 ; therefore, products containing bakuchiol, ceramides, vitamin B3, or hyaluronic acid may be recommended.

Furthermore, corrective procedures and skincare regimens are complementary and, when combined, can lead to reduced downtime, decreased risk of scarring, improved patient satisfaction, and better treatment outcomes. 78 , 79 These outcomes have been reported following the adjuvant use of noninvasive facial rejuvenation methods (e.g., photoprotection, moisturizers, retinoids, alpha‐hydroxy acids, and antioxidants) alongside invasive procedures like neuromodulators and filler injections. 80 A study involving patients with acne who underwent microneedling demonstrated that a probiotic regimen with photoprotection led to superior results and reduced downtime compared with traditional skincare (N = 40). 81

Skincare throughout the Patient Journey

Developed using market research data and presented in Figure 1, acne sufferers' journey reveals key insights into how individuals manage their condition. Many sufferers initially attempt to control their acne themselves through various skincare products. For example, hydrocolloid patches containing ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) are popular options for reducing inflammation and the appearance of active lesions. 4 , 82 The use of BPO, in particular, is recommended by the AAD guidelines because of its antimicrobial and comedolytic properties. 31 However, despite these initial self‐management attempts, roughly 33% of sufferers eventually consult an HCP, often triggered by worsening symptoms or the development of truncal acne/sequelae. However, the report highlights a potential gap in acne management: Only half of dermatologists recommend skincare products during initial consultation. This highlights a need for HCPs to proactively discuss skincare regimens and provide recommendations for products specifically formulated for their patient's needs, as many individuals currently rely on general skincare products not designed for acne.

Figure 1.

Figure 1

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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.

The global skin‐profiling study further supports the need for tailored skincare recommendations. Patients with acne and sensitive skin believe that skincare products should be cleansing (54%), hydrating (48%), tailored for sensitive skin (44%), provide photoprotection (41%), and brighten skin (36%). 10 The PACE panel also recommended that patients' daily skincare regimens be discussed at each consultation to facilitate an individualized management approach. 5 , 11

Moreover, the use of decorative cosmetics over topical treatments is counterproductive because it is thought to exacerbate follicular plugging to cause lesions, thus counteracting the therapeutic actions of the treatment. 67 However, if the patient wishes to persist with decorative cosmetic use, HCPs should recommend noncomedogenic, nonirritating, oil‐free, and photoprotective products to cover lesions. HCPs should also ensure that they advise patients to use appropriate decorative cosmetics that are compatible with prescribed medications, photoprotective, improve self‐esteem and quality of life, and reduce skin‐picking. 67

Conclusions

Establishing a skincare regimen incorporating cleansers, moisturizers, and photoprotection can improve overall acne treatment outcomes and skin quality, tone, and texture in most individuals, regardless of specific factors influencing skin type. Additionally, incorporating effective and highly tolerable skincare products into acne treatment regimens or supplementing invasive corrective procedures (One Acne™) may improve treatment outcomes. By improving treatment tolerability and overall skin quality, these products may increase treatment adherence and increase patient satisfaction. The One Acne™ approach may be particularly beneficial for patients with sensitive skin or those who have previously experienced adverse reactions to drug treatments or corrective procedures. Different skincare products may be more beneficial at different stages of a patient's acne treatment journey, so HCPs should recommend complementary skincare products at each key decision point that will provide optimal results when used in conjunction with their treatment regimen. Factors contributing to skin type differences, such as age, gender, ethnicity, Fitzpatrick skin type, and sensitivity, should also drive a personalized approach to One Acne™ regimens.

The data suggests that the One Acne™ approach may improve acne treatment outcomes across various treatment modalities. This article has reviewed its application in sensitive skin to supplement drug treatments for acne and its use alongside corrective procedures, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive and tailored One Acne™ regimen to enhance overall skin quality.

Acknowledgments

Charlotte Lewis of Ogilvy Health UK provided medical writing support under the authors' direction and was funded by Galderma.

Conflict of interest: Leon Kircik has received research grants from AbbVie, Allergan, Almirall, Amgen, Arcutis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Breckinridge Pharma, Bristol Myers Squibb, Celgene, Cellceutix, Centocor, Combinatrix, Connetics, Coria, Dermavant, Dermira, Dow Pharma, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Eli Lilly, Galderma, Genentech, GlaxoSmithKline, Idera, Johnson & Johnson, Leo Pharma, Maruho, Merck, Medicis, Novartis AG, Pfizer, PharmaDerm, Promius, Stiefel, Sun Pharma, UCB, Valeant, and XenoPort; has received honoraria from AbbVie, Allergan, Almirall, Amgen, Arcutis, Biogen Idec, Bristol Myers Squibb, Celgene, Cipher, Connetics, Dermavant, Dermira, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Eli Lilly, Galderma, Genentech, GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson, Leo Pharma, Merck, Novartis AG, PharmaDerm, Promius, Serono (Merck Serono International SA), Stiefel, Sun Pharma, Taro, UCB, and Valeant. Jerry Tan has acted as an advisor, consultant, investigator, and/or speaker and received grants/honoraria from Bausch, Galderma, Pfizer, Boots/Walgreens, Galderma, Novartis, Sun Pharma, Skinopathy, L'Oréal, and Cutera. Edward (Ted) Lain has served as an investigator, speaker, advisor, and/or consultant for Bausch, Galderma, Abbvie, L'Oreal, Kenvue, Beiersdorf, Pierre Fabre, Almirall, Pfizer, Eli Lilly, LEO, SUN Pharma, Vyne, Bristol Meyers Squibb, Novartis, Amgen, Cellceutix, Arcutis, Dermavant, UCB, Takeda, Sanofi, Regeneron, Incyte, GSK, and Cassiopeia. Katie Beleznay is a speaker, investigator, and consultant for AbbVie, Inc., Galderma, and L'Oreal. Rajeev Chavda and Nadège Lachmann are Galderma employees. Tjinta Brinkhuizen has acted as an advisor for Galderma and La Roche‐Possay. Hilary Baldwin has acted as an investigator, consultant, and/or speaker for Almirall, Bausch Health, Cassiopeia, EPI Health, Galderma, La Roche‐Posay, L'Oréal, Mayne Pharma, Sol–Gel, Sun Pharma, and Vyne. Alison Layton has acted as an advisor, consultant, investigator, and/or speaker and received grants/honoraria from Almirall, Alliance, Beiersdorf, Boots, Eligo Bioscience, Galderma, La Roche‐Posay, LEO Pharma, L'Oréal, Mylan, Novartis, Origimm, Proctor & Gamble.

Funding source: Galderma invited authors and funded the planning and delivery of this project. Galderma also funded medical writing services provided by Ogilvy Health UK.

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