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Marie Bosslett is the assistant editor of 

 and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in October 2024. She attended Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with minors in marketing and writing. When she’s not writing, Marie enjoys going to concerts, reading on the beach, and spending time with friends and family.

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In case you missed it, this week we had news about Alphyn Biologics' first patient dosed with zabalafin hydrogel, abrocitinib for Netherton Syndrome, the ICONIC-LEAD phase 3 study, and more.

The Weekly Roundup: April 7-11

Maddi Hebebrand is an associate editor of 

and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in May 2024. She attended Baldwin Wallace University, studying Media Production and Film, and is now finishing her Masters in Digital Media through Ohio University. When she's not writing, Maddi loves to read, attend concerts and spend time with her family.

This week, we feature top articles from our sister publications on FDA approvals, innovative tech updates, and more.

The Rx Recap: April 6-12

and joined the MJH Life Sciences team in February 2023. She attended Kent State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism with minors in public relations and creative writing. She enjoys making and listening to music, reading, and spending time with her cats, Astrid and Marceline.

Catch up on dermatology news, highlights, and insights from the past 24 hours.

Daily Derm Times: April 11, 2025

Satisfaction levels remained high at 12 weeks post-treatment among those who received acupuncture.

Acupuncture Reduces Frown Lines in Clinical Trial

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Edgar Charles, MD, is vice president and senior global program lead of Early/Late Development Immunology at Bristol Myers Squibb.

Edgar Charles, MD, on Long-term Deucravacitinib Psoriasis Data

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Comparative Studies in AD

Panelists offer concluding insights and emphasize the critical role of comparative studies in advancing atopic dermatitis treatment strategies.

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Jiyeon Oh, a researcher and MD candidate at Kyung Hee University College of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea, recently published a paper in 

 examining asthma and atopic dermatitis (AD) using data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD).

, Oh provided insights on the findings related to AD's global burden, prevalence, and corresponding healthcare implications.

Researcher Jiyeon Oh shares results of a recent study that confirm the prevalence of AD is stable, but disease burden is rising.

Atopic Dermatitis Insights on Global Prevalence, Health Care Implications, and the Impact of COVID-19

The 2021 GBD study offers the most up-to-date estimates on atopic dermatitis, tracking its prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) from 1990 to 2021. By 2021, approximately 129 million people worldwide were affected by AD. While the total number of cases has increased due to population growth, the age-standardized prevalence rate remained stable, suggesting that the actual rate of AD hasn't risen significantly over time.

Projections indicate that by 2050, there will be 148 million cases, with minimal change in the prevalence rate. One key observation by Oh and the investigators was the geographic variation, where high-income countries showed the highest prevalence and DALY rates. This is likely influenced by environmental factors, urbanization, and better diagnostic capabilities.

Despite the relatively stable prevalence, the increase in the number of AD cases means that healthcare systems will continue to face growing demand for treatments. Oh noted that AD's impact extends beyond skin symptoms, with patients often experiencing sleep disturbances, mental health issues, and long-term costs. She emphasized the need for healthcare systems to adopt sustainable, long-term management plans for AD, as it is a lifelong condition for many.

According to Oh, one surprising finding from the study was that atopic dermatitis prevalence was not significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, unlike asthma, which saw a decline in cases. Despite expectations that COVID-19 might increase AD prevalence due to heightened risk, no significant fluctuations were observed, suggesting that factors other than the pandemic may have a stronger influence on AD trends.

Want to hear more pearls and expert insights on AD? Join us at the annual 

Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conference

1. GBD 2021 Asthma and Allergic Diseases Collaborators. Global, regional, and national burden of asthma and atopic dermatitis, 1990-2021, and projections to 2050: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. 

Published online March 24, 2025. doi:10.1016/S2213-2600(25)00003-7

Jiyeon Oh's research, published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, analyzes the global burden of atopic dermatitis (AD) using data from the Global Burden of Diseases Study. The study reveals that while the number of AD cases has increased due to population growth, the age-standardized prevalence rate has remained stable. High-income countries exhibit the highest prevalence and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) rates, influenced by environmental factors and diagnostic capabilities. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, AD prevalence remained unaffected, highlighting the need for sustainable, long-term management plans for this lifelong condition.

Jiyeon Oh, a researcher and MD candidate at Kyung Hee University College of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea, discussed key takeaways for dermatologists treating patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), 

based on her recently published literature

Jiyeon Oh’s research confirms that a personalized approach is needed to treat all complexities associated with AD.

Why Atopic Dermatitis Treatment is Not “One Size Fits All,” According to Jiyeon Oh

One of the main points Ohemphasized is that AD remains a significant burden for dermatologists, particularly in high-income countries where its prevalence is highest. She stressed that because the disease burden varies by region, a "one size fits all" approach is insufficient. Dermatologists need to consider environmental, genetic, and socioeconomic factors to personalize treatment strategies. Additionally, the mental health impact of AD is profound. Patients with severe AD often experience anxiety and depression, and Oh encouraged dermatologists to adopt a holistic approach, addressing both the physical symptoms and the psychological aspects of care.

Oh also identified several study limitations, which may influence further research. Notably, the 2021 Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) did not assess modifiable risk factors for AD, unlike for asthma. While asthma burden was linked to factors such as high BMI, smoking, and pollution, similar analyses were absent for AD, which limits the understanding of environmental and lifestyle contributors to the disease. Oh highlighted the need for future studies to focus on quantifying the burden associated with modifiable risk factors to aid prevention efforts. Additionally, the GBD study relied on fewer data sources for AD compared to asthma, underscoring the need for more comprehensive and standardized collection to enhance the accuracy of prevalence and incidence estimates.

Finally, Oh emphasized the importance of region-specific intervention strategies. In high-income countries, efforts should focus on reducing environmental triggers, expanding treatment access, and integrating mental health support into AD care. Conversely, in lower-income regions, improving healthcare infrastructure and raising awareness of disease management should be prioritized. Overall, she urged dermatologists to advocate for better data collection and healthcare policies to improve long-term disease management for AD.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) presents a significant challenge for dermatologists, especially in high-income countries. Personalized treatment strategies are essential, considering environmental, genetic, and socioeconomic factors. The mental health impact of AD is substantial, necessitating a holistic care approach. Current research lacks analysis of modifiable risk factors for AD, unlike asthma, highlighting the need for future studies. Region-specific intervention strategies are crucial, focusing on environmental triggers and mental health support in high-income areas, and healthcare infrastructure in lower-income regions. Improved data collection and healthcare policies are vital for effective long-term management.

“When we talk about skin quality, especially in this day and time of social media, it's quite a relevant topic,” Sherket Peterson, PhD, said. “So, when we think about things like the use of filters to improve overall skin appearance, like dark spots, wrinkles, pores...all of these elements sort of fall within the skin quality bucket.”

Sherket Peterson, PhD, spoke to Dermatology Times about Allergan’s recent research and plan to launch a universal skin quality index.

Allergan Aesthetics' Effort to Create a Unified Vocabulary for Skin Quality

To address the challenges in the dermatological skin quality space, Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, is working to establish a universal vocabulary for skin quality. Peterson, a director of Clinical Development & Scientific Innovation for Aesthetics Medicine at Allergan, spoke to 

 about the recent research, “Establishing a Vocabulary for Skin Quality: Working Toward Consensus Skin Attribute Definitions From the Patient and Physician Perspective,” which was presented at the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress from March 27 to 29, in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

A critical issue in the dermatology field is the lack of consistent vocabulary for describing skin quality. This mismatch in language between patients and health care providers can lead to confusion during consultations, misdiagnoses, and inadequate treatment outcomes. Moreover, the absence of standardized terms has created barriers to effective patient care, impeding the development of safe, efficacious products.

Allergan has completed a 3-phase research approach to address these issues, culminating in the creation of a unified "Skin Quality Index." Phase 1 involved a scientific literature review to define 18 attributes of skin quality. In phase 2, insights were gathered from health care professionals through advisory boards. Here, the definitions were refined into 4 domains and 15 attributes of skin quality. This phase aimed to achieve 75% consensus, but the team ultimately reached 100%. Phase 3 expanded the research through qualitative and quantitative methods to include a broader range of voices, including patients of diverse demographics. Focus groups explored how factors like age, gender, and ethnicity influenced the language patients used to describe their skin concerns.

The findings showed a clear disconnect in terminology between clinicians and patients, according to Peterson. While providers used more technical terms like “rosacea,” “hyperpigmentation,” and “xerosis,” patients often used simpler terms to describe red, sun damaged, or dry skin. This miscommunication not only hindered accurate diagnoses but also affected treatment outcomes. Peterson emphasized the importance of aligning the language used by both parties to enhance understanding and improve patient care, which can ultimately lead to more effective treatments.

1. Humphrey, S, et al. Establishing a Vocabulary for Skin Quality: Working Toward Consensus Skin Attribute Definitions From the Patient and Physician Perspective. Poster presented at: Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress; March 27–29, 2025; Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Allergan Aesthetics is addressing the lack of consistent vocabulary in dermatology by developing a universal language for skin quality. This initiative aims to bridge the communication gap between patients and healthcare providers, which often leads to misdiagnoses and inadequate treatments. Through a three-phase research approach, Allergan established a "Skin Quality Index" with 15 attributes and four domains. The research highlighted the disconnect in terminology used by clinicians and patients, emphasizing the need for aligned language to improve patient care and treatment outcomes.

Allergan’s latest initiative hopes to empower both patients and clinicians while advancing industry standards, according to Sherket Peterson, PhD.

Bridging the Communication Gap Between Providers and Patients Through the Skin Quality Index

, Sherket Peterson, PhD, a clinical director at Allergan Aesthetics, discussed the potential impact of this new research on dermatology providers and patients. The creation of the Skin Quality Index aims to address the existing communication gap between patients and health care providers regarding skin quality concerns. Peterson emphasized that this index would help patients better express their skin concerns while providing a standardized framework for providers to assess and treat these issues effectively. It includes 4 domains that encompass visual, tactile, hydration, and mechanical attributes of skin quality, with 15 specific attributes for a comprehensive understanding.

Peterson highlighted 3 key outcomes from these findings. First, it will improve communication between patients and providers, leading to more effective consultations, treatment recommendations, and outcomes. Additionally, it will empower patients by providing a clearer understanding of their skin quality, allowing them to take a more active role in maintaining their skin health between visits. Finally, by defining skin quality more precisely, it is expected to influence the development of safe and efficacious products for the market. Overall, the goal is to shape the dermatology industry and assist health authorities in approving more effective treatments through this transformative tool.

Looking ahead, Peterson explained that the Skin Quality Index is just the first step in addressing the broader challenges in dermatology, which also include advancing scientific research and bringing more effective products to market. This work was recently highlighted at the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress from March 27 to 29, in Monte Carlo, Monaco. It was recognized as a significant contribution to redefining patient-provider communication in the dermatology field, as Allergan remains committed to bridging the gap while advancing industry standards in skin quality care.

“It really is a labor of love for us. We’ve done the years of research, partnered with health care providers...we're really elevating the patient voice,” Peterson concluded.

The Skin Quality Index will be launched later this year.

The Skin Quality Index, developed by Allergan Aesthetics, aims to bridge the communication gap between patients and dermatology providers regarding skin quality concerns. This index, encompassing visual, tactile, hydration, and mechanical attributes, provides a standardized framework for assessing and treating skin issues. It is expected to enhance patient-provider communication, empower patients in managing their skin health, and influence the development of effective dermatological products. Highlighted at the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress, this tool represents a significant advancement in dermatology, with its launch anticipated later this year.

“Everybody needs to wash their face, use a moisturizer, and use sunscreen,” Zoe Diana Draelos, MD, said, “But because people with rosacea have sensitive skin, they need to be more judicious in their selection of skincare products.”

For Rosacea Awareness Month, Zoe Diana Draelos, MD, spoke to Dermatology Times about skinbetter’s Mystro Active Balance Serum and its NRS Seal of Acceptance.

Choosing the Correct Skin Care for Rosacea with skinbetter science and Zoe Diana Draelos, MD

In a recent interview to celebrate April’s Rosacea Awareness Month, Draelos, consulting professor at Duke University School of Medicine, founder of Dermatology Consulting Services, PLLC, and 

’ editor in chief emeritus, discussed the significance of this month.

Draelos emphasized that it is vital for clinicians to recommend products that will best suit the sensitive skin of rosacea patients by managing symptoms and providing relief. One example of this is skinbetter science’s 

National Rosacea Society (NRS) Seal of Acceptance

. This approval reassures providers that the product is both safe and effective for the specific needs of their patients.

The Mystro Active Balance Serum, which leverages the brand’s proprietary P.A.T.H. technology, is designed to assist in both the treatment and maintenance phases of rosacea care, according to Draelos. The serum combines various plant-based adaptogens, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These ingredients work to minimize redness and inflammation, making the product a useful adjunct to prescription therapies.

One of the most notable achievements for the serum was earning the NRS Seal of Acceptance. Draelos explained that this seal is granted only to products clinically tested on rosacea patients, ensuring their efficacy and safety. The skinbetter serum underwent testing on 30 individuals with rosacea, with no adverse reactions noted and a noticeable reduction in redness after 12 weeks of use.

Draelos emphasized that the serum can easily be incorporated into patients’ existing daily skin care routines. It should be applied to a cleansed face before moisturizers, sunscreens, and other treatments. Dermatologists are advised to recommend the serum as a complement to prescription therapies, especially for those experiencing additional sensory symptoms like stinging or itching.

Rosacea patients require careful selection of skincare products due to their sensitive skin. Clinicians should recommend products that manage symptoms and provide relief. The Mystro Active Balance Serum, which recently received the National Rosacea Society Seal of Acceptance, is designed for rosacea care, leveraging plant-based adaptogens to minimize redness and inflammation. Clinically tested on rosacea patients, the serum showed no adverse reactions and reduced redness after 12 weeks. It can be easily integrated into daily skincare routines, complementing prescription therapies and addressing sensory symptoms.

Edgar Charles, MD

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