Product Theater – AKLIEF Cream: An Innovative Topical Retinoid for the Treatment of Acne

Faculty: Ted Lain, MD

For Saturday morning product theater, Dr. Ted Lain reviewed Aklief (trifarotene) 0.005% cream, a new topical innovation in the treatment of moderate to severe acne. Dr. Lain noted when surveyed, up to 94% acne patients believe their providers could do more to improve their acne. and up to 52% have skipped a social event due to their acne. Dr. Lain encouraged all providers to check patients who present with facial acne for acne on their chest, back and shoulders as these areas are typically hidden and under-recognized as areas of significant acne for patients.

Aklief is indicated for the treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 9 years and older. It is a topical retinoid that binds to RAR-gamma, which is the most common retinoic acid receptor of the skin. Dr. Lain reports the AAD recommends “retinoids as the core of topical therapy for acne because they are comedolytic, they resolve the precursor microcomedone lesion and they are anti-inflammatory.” In addition to the use of retinoids, he encourages the use of moisturizers to repair the skin of acne patients.

Aklief is indicated for the treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 9 years and older.

Dr. Lain encouraged education and close follow up of acne patients. These patients need to know their acne will get worse before it improves when using a retinoid. He reports Aklief is a “powerful” medication, therefore, a very little amount is needed for a response. Some patients may need to start every other day and move to daily application as tolerated. For facial application , he recommends starting with a “half pea” sized amount. The medication is dispensed through a pump. The most common adverse events for patients who were treated with Aklief are irritation, pruritus and sun burn. He reports long term use shows greater improvement over time. All patients who use retinoids should be counseled to use sunscreen.