In each issue, Practical Dermatology® magazine spotlights a new medication or cosmeceutical that dermatologists are recommending to patients. Here, Birmingham, AL-based dermatologist Julie Harper, MD, founding director and past president of the American Acne and Rosacea Society, shares her thoughts on Sun Pharma’s Winlevi for acne, a first-in-class topical androgen receptor inhibitor that’s now available in the US.
What is Winlevi?
Julie Harper, MD: Winlevi (clascoterone) cream 1% is a first-in-class topical androgen receptor inhibitor. It’s unique in the acne world. Androgen receptor inhibition has long been the missing link in the topical management of acne vulgaris. We have never had a topical that works using this mechanism. Other androgen receptor inhibitors for acne are taken orally. The main excitement is that it’s not a new formulation or a me-too. This is a true first.
Which acne patients can benefit from this novel topical?
Dr. Harper: The ideal patient is anyone aged 12 and older who has acne. We can use this medication in men, too. It acts as an anti-androgen in the skin but is very quickly metabolized so there is no systemic absorption. It’s time to start thinking of acne as hormonal in men, too.
How does Winlevi reduce acne?
Dr. Harper: Acne is caused by plugging of follicles, C. acnes bacteria, inflammation, and sebum. This product reduces sebum and inflammation. Androgens are the most important hormone in regulating sebum production—which is a major cause of acne in both males and females.
How do you see Winlevi fitting into your acne toolbox?
Dr. Harper: I see it as part of combination therapy. It hits two of four targets in the pathogenesis of acne, and we really want to hit all four. I use it with a topical retinoid to hit follicular plugs and epithelial hyperkeratinization and benzoyl peroxide or oral antibiotics to eradicate bacteria.
Any side effects?
Dr. Harper: Some patients in clinical studies reported erythema, stinging, burning, scaling, and/or dryness. This is a cream-based product so it should not be too drying. It may even be moisturizing in some patients. It’s a creamier product and I think that will be something that patients will end up liking.
How do you suggest acne patients use Winlevi?
Dr. Harper: Ideally, they should use it twice a day for maximum results.
New Products
10 Luxe Hand & Body Cream, DefenAge
DefenAge Skincare’s 10 Luxe Hand & Body Cream is now available. Infused with DefenAge’s exclusive defensin-molecules, the new cream bathes skin in age-reversal skincare technology. 10 Luxe Hand & Body Cream enhances visible firmness and cosmetic elasticity, addresses crepey skin, boosts long-lasting hydration and radiance, improves the look, softness, and textural feel of the skin on the elbows and knees, smooths and softens the skin on hands, and pairs with body contouring procedures and skin rejuvenation treatments. The formulation is based on the four pillars of the care of body skin: 1) Global anti-aging, 2) barrier repair and hydration, 3) anti-inflammation, and 4) DefenAge’s hero blend of ingredients. Defenage.com
Dermatologist-Developed Acne Range, CeraVe
CeraVe has expanded its line developed specifically for those with acne-prone skin with Acne Control Cleanser and Acne Control Gel. Consumers can customize regimens to help treat different types of acne and skin concerns. CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser uses 2% salicylic acid to cleanse, exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores to reduce blackheads, and prevent new breakouts. In addition to ceramides, this gentle gel-to-foam cleanser also features oil-absorbing technology and niacinamide to help calm skin. Acne Control Gel is a full-face hydrating acne treatment that also contains 2% salicylic acid, as well as AHAs, and glycolic and lactic acids, to help clear acne and prevent new breakouts. The lightweight gel provides gentle exfoliation and minimizes the appearance of pores, while improving skin texture. CeraVe.com
Sensitive Skin Collection, Alastin Skincare
Alastin Skincare, Inc. recently introduced three new sensitive skincare products: Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream, Ultra Light Moisturizer with TriHex Technology, and SilkSHIELD All-Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with TriHex Technology. The newest sensitive skin collection is designed with ultra-calming, restorative formulas to help treat naturally sensitive or post-cosmetic treatment skin. Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream helps to balance and purify, leaving skin softer and more nourished while gently removing dirt, oil and makeup without upsetting the skin’s moisture balance. Ultra Light Moisturizer with TriHex Technology provides the gentle hydration necessary for compromised or easily irritated skin, while helping to encourage the production of new elastin and collagen. SilkSHIELD All-Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with TriHex Technology is a lightweight, fast-absorbing, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sheer finish which means no white cast. Formulated with TriHex Technology, SilkSHIELD supports the skin’s natural ability to produce new, healthy elastin and collagen along with providing protection from UVA/UVB, IR rays, pollution and blue light. Alastin.com
Theraderm Cool Skin, Theraderm
Therapon Skin Health re-launched one of its foundational products, Theraderm Cool Skin. Previously known as Instant Cool Skin, the unique solution uses lactic acid to instantly stop intracellular damage from burn energy. Cool Skin rapidly begins to reverse and repair any energy-caused burns after they happen, preventing permanent skin damage. When used within four to six hours after sun exposure, this patent-pending formula stops the injury process before symptoms like pain, blistering and redness fully develop. The addition of lidocaine helps cool skin on contact and soothes the burning sensation. Theraderm.net
