Do you have acne problems? Now there’s hope

Do you have acne problems?

Scientists at the University of California (UCSD) in San Diego have made significant progress in the development of a vaccine against acne. This could represent a new treatment option for one of the most common skin diseases, which affects up to 85 percent of people at some point in their lives. Tests with mice have already been successful.

Professor George Liu, head of the Department of Infectious Diseases at UCSD, explained that acne can cause not only physical but also significant psychological distress. The research team has focused on the role of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, which is commonly found on skin with acne breakouts. Studies have shown that different strains of this bacterium can either cause acne or colonize healthy skin.

Further research needed

The researchers developed different vaccine formulations that targeted the acne-causing strain while leaving the strain that promotes healthy skin untouched. Early tests showed that the severity of acne in test animals could be reduced by up to 50 percent.

Although there are promising results, Liu emphasized that more research is needed to ensure the vaccine’s efficacy and safety. However, this approach could be a significant improvement over current treatments, which often have significant side effects. The team is planning further studies to better understand the genetic and environmental factors that influence acne.

Acne is one of the most widespread skin diseases, affecting more than two-thirds of adolescents: “Depending on the severity of the acne, it can cause considerable suffering.” On the one hand due to painful inflammatory changes on the skin, and on the other hand due to severe impairment of appearance, “because acne occurs in places that are easily visible”. Acne is not only a cosmetic problem, but also a serious medical one. It is important that those affected know that medical support is available.