Recent therapeutic developments for acne

Abstract

Current therapeutic concepts of acne vulgaris have to consider that acne is now understood as a primary inflammatory and chronic disease aggravated by genetic, microbial and environmental factors. Recent developments still focus on topical fixed combinations of substances with complementary effects in order to optimize efficacy without promoting bacterial resistance, which is a major concern resulting from inadequate use of antibiotics. New innovative therapeutic targets of acne pathophysiology are rare. Easy, convenient application and patient education are the basis to ensure patient adherence, which has been identified as a vital factor of therapeutic success of this chronic disease. The implementation of the European evidence-based S3 guidelines represents a major advancement in supporting therapeutic decisions based on literature review instead of expert opinion alone and traded therapy concepts. © 2013 Expert Reviews Ltd.