Moisturizer Effective in Acne Patients Using Topical Therapies: Analysis

Key Takeaways

• New study results show a gel-matrix moisturizer improved key epidermal proteins, filaggrin and aquaporin-3, in preclinical models.

• Researchers reported positie results, including more skin smoothness, clarity, and reduced treatment-related dryness and itching.

• Patients reported improved QoL after a month of adjunctive use with topical acne treatments.

New research showed a novel gel-matrix moisturizer improving skin barrier function and overall skin quality in adults with acne undergoing topical treatment.

Researchers from Kenvue and Dermatology Consulting Services evaluated both preclinical and clinical effects of the moisturizer, designed for acne-prone and sensitive skin. The product aims to deliver long-lasting hydration while minimizing irritation and dryness often associated with topical acne therapies.

Moisturizer use increased filaggrin expression by 36% and aquaporin-3 by 102% in skin explan studies compared with untreated controls (P < 0.05). Moisturizer used with normal prescription or over-the-counter topical acne regimens was linked with improvements in skin texture, clarity, radiance, and overall appearance at 4 weeks (P < 0.01 for all). Pore appearance, skin itching (P < 0.01), and tightness (P < 0.002) also showed improvement. Quality of life scores increased at 4 weeks (P < 0.001).

“The gel-matrix moisturizer improved barrier function and skin attributes without exacerbating acne symptoms, offering suitable topical moisturization when used as an adjunctive moisturizer with acne treatments,” the authors wrote in the abstract.

Source: Bernhardt K, et al. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2025;24(21);1239