Does Aklief (trifarotene) have anti-aging effects?

Trifarotene (Aklief) and Anti-Aging Effects

Topical retinoids like trifarotene (Aklief) may provide modest anti-aging benefits through improvement in lentigines and reduced wrinkles, though Aklief is not specifically FDA-approved for anti-aging purposes.

Mechanism and Evidence for Anti-Aging Effects

Trifarotene (Aklief) is a fourth-generation retinoid that selectively targets retinoic acid receptor gamma (RAR-γ), the predominant retinoid receptor in the epidermis 1. While primarily approved for acne vulgaris treatment, retinoids as a class have demonstrated effects that could contribute to anti-aging benefits:

• The British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines note that topical retinoids may provide "some additional benefit with respect to improvement in lentigines and reduced wrinkles" 2
• Retinoids can modulate key skin processes including:
  • Epidermal differentiation and proliferation
  • Skin hydration
  • Cell adhesion
  • Extracellular matrix reorganization 3, 1

Comparison to Other Retinoids

Older studies with other retinoids provide context for potential anti-aging effects:

• Tretinoin cream has shown reduction of facial actinic keratoses (a sign of photoaging) by 30.3% after 16 weeks of twice-daily use 2
• Long-term tretinoin use (15 months) showed 47% reduction in facial photoaging markers 2
• However, these benefits required sustained rather than short-term treatment 2

Clinical Considerations

When considering trifarotene for potential anti-aging benefits:

Advantages of Trifarotene

• Selective RAR-γ targeting may provide more specific action in the epidermis 1
• Rapidly metabolized by hepatic microsomes, potentially offering improved systemic safety profile 1
• Shows activity on cellular migration, inflammation, and extracellular matrix reorganization 3

Limitations and Caveats

• Trifarotene is FDA-approved specifically for acne vulgaris, not for anti-aging 4, 5
• Common side effects include pruritus, irritation, and increased risk of sunburn 5
• Initial worsening of skin appearance may occur before improvement (as seen with other retinoids) 2
• Cost may be prohibitive compared to older retinoids with more established anti-aging evidence 5

Practical Application

If considering trifarotene for potential anti-aging benefits:

1. Apply in the evening to clean, dry skin
2. Use consistently for several months, as retinoid benefits require sustained use
3. Always combine with daily sunscreen use, as retinoids can increase photosensitivity
4. Be prepared for potential initial irritation, which typically improves with continued use
5. Understand that while some anti-aging benefits may occur, they are likely modest and secondary to its primary action

Bottom Line

While trifarotene may provide some anti-aging benefits similar to other retinoids through its effects on skin cell turnover and extracellular matrix, it is not specifically approved for this purpose. Other retinoids with more established anti-aging evidence might be more appropriate first-line choices for patients primarily seeking anti-aging effects.