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

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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

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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