From the Guidelines
Trifarotene does not work better than every other retinoid, particularly when considering the efficacy of isotretinoin in treating severe recalcitrant nodular acne vulgaris. The effectiveness of trifarotene, a fourth-generation retinoid, is largely dependent on the specific skin condition being treated, with its receptor selectivity and ability to treat larger body surface areas with less systemic absorption being notable advantages 1. However, for severe acne, isotretinoin remains a highly effective treatment option, with studies showing significant improvements in lesion count and treatment success rates 1. In contrast to trifarotene, isotretinoin has been shown to reduce the size and secretion of sebaceous glands, decrease surface and ductal levels of sebum-dependent C. acnes, and possess anti-inflammatory properties 1.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of trifarotene compared to other retinoids include:
- The specific skin condition being treated, with trifarotene being particularly effective for acne on the face, chest, and back
- The individual patient's skin sensitivity and preferences, with adapalene being a potentially better option for sensitive skin
- The treatment area, with tazarotene being often considered more potent for psoriasis treatment
- The potential for initial irritation, dryness, and photosensitivity with all retinoids, requiring gradual introduction and consistent sun protection
Overall, while trifarotene may be an effective treatment option for certain skin conditions, its effectiveness compared to other retinoids, particularly isotretinoin, is highly dependent on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors 1.
From the Research
Comparison of Trifarotene with Other Retinoids
- Trifarotene has been shown to be effective in treating mild-to-moderate acne, with notable success in reducing atrophic acne scars and acne-induced hyperpigmentation 2.
- Compared to other retinoids, trifarotene has demonstrated efficacy in reducing both comedones and papules/pustules of acne, with a strong selectivity for retinoic acid receptor (RAR) γ 3.
- Trifarotene has been found to be safe, well-tolerated, and effective in moderate facial and truncal acne, with a low incidence of adverse events 4.
Efficacy of Trifarotene in Acne Treatment
- Trifarotene has been shown to be effective in reducing acne lesions, with a treatment success rate of 65.1% for facial acne and 66.9% for truncal acne 5.
- The use of trifarotene has been associated with improved quality of life, with 53.8% of patients reporting no effect of acne on their quality of life at Week 52 4.
- Trifarotene has been found to be effective in improving acne sequelae, including atrophic acne scars and acne-induced macular hyperpigmentation 2, 6.
Place in Therapy
- Trifarotene can be used successfully as monotherapy or in association with other treatments in most clinical settings of acne 6.
- Trifarotene plays an essential role in patients with existing acne-induced scars and hyperpigmentation, those with a clinical or personal history of scarring, and those who are predisposed to acne-induced hyperpigmentation 6.
- Due to its long-term efficacy and tolerability, trifarotene is also a good option as a maintenance treatment 6.