The Study
Topical Retinoids in Acne Vulgaris and Acne Scars—From Monotherapy to Combining Regimens
This study is like a summary of many different smaller studies, some good and some not so good. It says retinoids might help with acne scars, but it doesn't prove it — it just shows that some people noticed improvements in small tests. We can't say for sure it works because not all the studies were fair or big enough.
Analysis score
Maximum 5 for a narrative review.
Where the score came from
Special vitamin-A creams called retinoids help unclog pores, calm skin, and rebuild collagen to fix acne scars. Mixing them with other creams like benzoyl peroxide works even better.
Where does this study sit?
Reviews of RCTs (Meta-analyses)
Max 100Randomized Trials
Max 90Reviews of Cohort Studies
Max 85Cohort Studies
Max 72Reviews of Case-Control Studies
Max 63Case-Control Studies
Max 58Cross-Sectional & Case Series
Max 50Expert Opinion
Max 51 / 100
Quality score
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of cohort studies. They sit above a single cohort study but below a single randomized trial, because the underlying evidence is still observational.
Key takeaways
Summary
Based on the study abstract and findings.
- 1Yes — these results mean people can treat acne and prevent lasting scars with fewer side effects using smarter combinations and newer creams.
- 2Trifarotene reduced acne scars in over 100 patients over 24 weeks.
- 3Combining retinoids with benzoyl peroxide improved acne more than either alone.
- 4New cream technologies reduced irritation in small studies.
Score breakdown, methodology, conflicts of interest, evidence analysis & raw study data
Publication
Journal
Pharmaceuticals
Year
2026
Authors
A. Tobiasz, A. Jankowska-Konsur, D. Nowicka
Related Content
Claims (6)
Topical retinoids improve the skin's protective barrier, decrease water loss through the skin, and block enzymes that break down collagen and elastin.
Using topical retinoids together with microneedling, fractional laser therapy, or chemical peels results in greater improvement in acne scarring than using any of these treatments by themselves.
Topical retinoids are linked to visible improvement in atrophic acne scars and slower worsening of scarring through changes in fibroblast function and collagen structure.
Using both a topical retinoid and benzoyl peroxide together reduces acne more effectively than using either one alone, because they work through different biological pathways and lower the chance of bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics.
New types of retinoid skin treatments using nanostructured lipid carriers, microsponges, and polymeric emulsions show better skin absorption, less irritation, and greater stability than traditional formulations.
Trifarotene, a prescription acne medication, is linked to a measurable decrease in acne scars and fewer side effects in patients with moderate acne on the face and torso after 24 weeks of use.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.