Sequential Treatment With Topical Trifarotene and Injectable NASHA Gel in Acne Scars: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine
• Cutaneous Scarring Research
• Regenerative Dermatology

Background:

• Topical retinoids are standard for acne management and skin texture improvement.
• Injectable non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHATM) gel is utilized as a skin booster to enhance skin quality, including atrophic acne scars.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a novel sequential treatment combining topical trifarotene and NASHA gel for acne scars.
• To evaluate the combined effects of retinoid therapy and hyaluronic acid skin boosters on acne scar resolution.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 10 patients (19-25 years) with facial atrophic and post-inflammatory acne scars received 3 months of topical trifarotene (50 μg/g) short contact therapy (SCT) nightly.
• A recommended sensitive skin routine accompanied the retinoid therapy.
• Following retinoid treatment, patients underwent 3 to 10 sessions of injectable NASHA gel (20 mg/ml) as a skin booster, based on scar severity and response.

Main Results:

• Complete adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen was observed.
• Digital photography analysis indicated highly effective results, demonstrating significant clinical improvement or near-complete resolution of atrophic acne scars.

Conclusions:

• This case series suggests that sequential treatment with topical trifarotene and NASHA gel is effective for progressive acne scar reduction.
• The observed benefits may stem from a synergistic effect involving skin remodeling and enhanced collagen stimulation.