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Efficacy and tolerability of topical trifarotene in managing acne vulgaris among Malaysians: a single arm, open label, observational study


Citation

Goh, Jun Hui and Tan, Tatt Quan and Ho, Wen Chung and Lee, Chi Fai and Sundaran, Meroshini and An, Jia Xu and How, Kang Nien (2026) Efficacy and tolerability of topical trifarotene in managing acne vulgaris among Malaysians: a single arm, open label, observational study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 25 (7). art. no. e71058. pp. 1-10. ISSN 1473-2130; eISSN: 1473-2165

Abstract

Background: Trifarotene is a new fourth-generation topical retinoid that selectively binds to RAR-γ receptors. However, the efficacy and safety data of trifarotene on Asians are lacking. Thus, we evaluated its real-world efficacy and tolerability among Malaysians. Methods: This prospective, 12-week observational study at Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, Malaysia, involved participants with mild-to-moderate facial acne. Efficacy was assessed using absolute lesion counts, Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation Index (PAHPI), and Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI). Tolerability was evaluated by using a modified safety assessment scale and participant-reported side effects. Participants' satisfaction and subjective outcomes were assessed via a questionnaire at week 12. Results: 21 participants completed the study. A significant reduction of acne lesions was observed at week 12 (p < 0.05). Treatment success rate was achieved in 61.9%, with significant improvement in PAHPI and CADI scores (p < 0.05). By week 12, 61.9% of participants experienced no irritation. Common side effects included dryness (81.0%), burning sensation (71.4%) and erythema (52.4%). Most participants were satisfied with the outcomes (85.7%), and willing to continue and recommend it to others (81.0%). Conclusion: Trifarotene demonstrated significant efficacy and good tolerability supporting its use as a valuable option for acne management in Malaysia.


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Additional Metadata

Item Type: Article
Subject: Dermatology
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine and Health Science
Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (UPM)
DOI Number: https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.71058
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Inc
Keywords: acne vulgaris; efficacy; Malaysia; retinoids; tolerability; trifarotene
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Depositing User: Ms. Siti Radziah Mohamed@mahmod
Date Deposited: 22 Jul 2026 00:50
Last Modified: 22 Jul 2026 00:50
Altmetrics: http://www.altmetric.com/details.php?domain=psasir.upm.edu.my&doi=10.1111/jocd.71058
URI: http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/127236
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