4 Checks on Trifarotene for Face and Body Acne

Who participated

PERFECT 1/2 randomized 2,420 people, eligible from age nine, to once-daily 0.005% trifarotene or cream without trifarotene for twelve weeks. Facial acne was moderate; median age was eighteen. Trunk eligibility was optional at ages nine–eleven.¹

Facial success

Success meant clear/almost clear with ≥2-grade improvement: 29.4% versus 19.5%, then 42.3% versus 25.7%. Both inflammatory and noninflammatory lesion counts also improved more.¹

Body results

Trunk success was secondary: 35.7% versus 25.0%, then 42.6% versus 29.9%. Testing required all three facial endpoints to succeed first.¹²

Missing results were statistically estimated; 214 participants discontinued. Neither trial compared trifarotene with another acne drug. Galderma funded the trials; three authors were employees.¹

Irritation precautions

The US label permits Aklief for acne from age nine: a thin layer each evening on clean, dry affected skin. Redness, scaling, dryness and burning can occur. Start moisturizer with treatment; report irritation so the prescriber can adjust frequency, pause or stop treatment. Avoid waxing treated skin and application to cuts, eczema or sunburn. Minimize sunlight and sunlamps; use sunscreen and protective clothing when exposure is unavoidable. Discuss pregnancy plans and breastfeeding before use; harm to an unborn baby is unknown. Avoid applying to the nipple or areola while breastfeeding.³

The American Academy of Dermatology strongly recommends topical retinoids, including trifarotene, for acne. Its guidelines also recommend combining different topical treatment types when appropriate. Ask which products belong in your prescription routine before adding another active.⁴

Scars are a separate question: our trifarotene acne-scar trial checks examine that study.

Skin, Head to Toe explains a Skin Log with dated treatment starts, irritation notes and photographs every two to four weeks, including your back when affected. See the book.