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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.

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Explore the top headlines of the week including insights on the environmental impact of conferences, new clinical data, and the shift towards more natural-looking results.

Dermatology Times' Sunday Crossword: March 16, 2025

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.

In case you missed it, this week we had news about the FDA voluntary benzoyl peroxide recalls, the National Eczema Association's strategic efforts, recaps of this week’s AAD Annual Meeting, and more. 

The Weekly Roundup: March 10-14

This week, we feature top articles from our sister publications on FDA updates, Medicaid pricing, and more.

The Rx Recap: March 9-15

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In today's society, the lawsuit is seen as a way to "get rich quick" rather than as a method of creating justice.

Living in a Litigious World Demands Defensive Asset Protection

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.

clinical

Video Series

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recently released new 

 to update the previous 2016 guidelines. The AAD Acne Workgroup made strong recommendations for topical benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and/or antibiotics and their fixed-dose combinations, and for oral doxycycline.

 also reviewed topical retinoids, including tretinoin, adapalene, trifarotene, and tazarotene.

“We recommend topical retinoids for acne treatment based on moderate certainty evidence from 20 studies. Compared to vehicle at 12 weeks, a greater proportion of patients treated with topical retinoids achieved IGA success in 4 RCTs (risk ratio [RR], 1.57 [1.21, 2.04]). Existing comparative effectiveness data do not suggest superiority of one topical retinoid against another, with efficacy and tolerability differing by specific concentrations and formulations,” wrote Reynolds et al.

Reynolds RV, Yeung H, Cheng CE, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. 

. Published online January 30, 2024. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2023.12.017

Tell us more about what retinoids you prescribe and why by emailing 

The American Academy of Dermatology has updated its acne treatment guidelines, emphasizing the use of topical benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and antibiotics, as well as oral doxycycline. The guidelines highlight the efficacy of topical retinoids such as tretinoin, adapalene, trifarotene, and tazarotene, based on moderate certainty evidence from multiple studies. The data indicate no significant superiority among different retinoids, with efficacy and tolerability varying by concentration and formulation. These updates aim to provide dermatologists with evidence-based recommendations for managing acne vulgaris effectively.

Click here to answer this week’s acne poll. 

Polls 

POLL: What Topical Retinoid Do You Most Often Prescribe? 

To stay informed with the latest conference insights,

Icotrokinra Demonstrates Promise in Phase 3 ICONIC-LEAD and ICONIC-ADVANCE for Plaque Psoriasis

Johnson & Johnson’s JNJ-2113 showed promise for PsO, achieving high skin clearance with a strong safety profile.

InflaRX Presents Efficacy and Safety Data on Vilobelimab at AAD 2025

Efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetic data support the use of vilobelimab in treating pyoderma gangrenosum and hidradenitis suppurativa.

Reviewing 3 Key Lebrikizumab Abstracts From AAD 2025

Anabela Cardoso, MD, discussed lebrikizumab’s efficacy in improving itch, skin pain, sleep disturbance, and long-term management in atopic dermatitis.

Lebrikizumab Shows 3-Year Sustained Efficacy in AD

The study found half of the patients receiving once-monthly lebrikizumab achieved complete skin clearance at 3 years, with 87% maintaining near-clearance.

Michael Gold, MD: Advances in Acne Treatment and Energy-Based Devices

Gold highlighted the growing role of energy-based devices in acne treatment during his AAD session.

Late-Breaking ESK-001 Data from the OLE STRIDE Trial Presented at AAD 2025

New results from Alumis show a positive clinical response and safety profile after 52 weeks of treatment for patients with plaque psoriasis.

Addressing Ongoing Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzene Updates at AAD 2025

Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, discussed how to interpret recent benzene research as clinicians await regulatory guidance for benzoyl peroxide.

Catch up on coverage from the final day of the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting held in Orlando, Florida.

Day 5 Recap: AAD 2025

The lip augmentation market is projected to reach a value of 11.6 billion USD by 2030.

 Although hyaluronic acid fillers are the most common type of lip procedure, an alternative method, the “lip flip,” has grown in popularity in recent years, with the #lipflip hashtag gaining 64.4 million views on TikTok as of July 2021.

 A lip flip involves injecting botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) into the superior orbicularis oris muscle, forming a more natural “pout” in the upper mouth. The technique is less expensive than a traditional dermal lip filler, but the effects have a more temporary duration of 8 to 12 weeks. Both methods have similar adverse effects of swelling and bruising at the injection site, but lip flips do not require much aftercare post-procedure.

“’Lip flips’ are ideal for patients who desire fuller lips but do not want lip fillers, have excessive gingival display while smiling, have an upper lip that retracts with their smile, or prefer relatively short-term or temporary results,” according to the study authors.

A novel longitudinal analysis evaluated shifts in public interest over the past decade regarding these minimally invasive lip augmentation strategies.

 Investigators used the Google Trends database to evaluate the historical monthly search volumes of “lip filler” and “lip flip” from January 2014 to January 2024.

Both search terms had similar increases in engagement across the 10-year period. However, lip filler was searched more consistently with an average 75% increase in relative search volume per month. Conversely, lip flip had a mean increase of 33%. Furthermore, the relative search volumes were quantified as 12.1 for lip flip and 30.4 for lip filler, giving “lip flip” a consistently lower Google search volume over time (

Even with these differences, both terms saw similar patterns across the years. For example, both saw a rapid decline at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,  between February 2020 and April 2020. Conversely, between September 2022 and February 2023, there was a stark increase in both categories' searches.

Even as lip flips grow in public interest, it still remains secondary to lip filler, according to this data. The research is limited, however, as the sole use of Google Trends does not provide information on patient factors like demographics, satisfaction, and outcomes. Including clinical surveys and data in future research could bolster these results and provide a more nuanced perspective on these procedures.

“This reveals a need for future research surrounding patient and physician education on minimally invasive lip augmentation procedures and what deciding factors are considered, such as safety, cost, or convenience,” the authors concluded. “It also emphasizes the need for future research assessing sociodemographic factors that play a role in cosmetic lip augmentation, ultimately allowing us to understand better the populations seeking these procedures and their accessibility.

Do you prefer lip filler or lip flips? Let us know your thoughts and experiences by answering our poll above and commenting on social media, or by writing to us at 

1. Grandview Research, “Lip Augmentation Market Size to Reach $11.61Bn By 2030,” (2023), 

https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-lip-augmentation-market.

2. D. Shira, “Considering a Lip Flip? Here's Why Experts Say Proceed With Caution,” (2024), 

www.forbes.com/sites/dahvishira/2024/02/21/considering-a-lip-flip-heres-why-experts-say-proceed-with-caution/

3. Bourmand R, Olsson SE, Soleimani S, Fijany A. Lip Filler Versus "Lip Flip": Longitudinal Public Interest and a Brief Review of Literature. 

. 2025;24(2):e70048. doi:10.1111/jocd.70048

The lip augmentation market is expected to reach $11.6 billion by 2030, with hyaluronic acid fillers being the most common procedure. However, the "lip flip," which uses botulinum neurotoxin A, is gaining popularity due to its natural appearance and lower cost, despite its temporary effects. A longitudinal analysis using Google Trends showed that while both "lip filler" and "lip flip" searches increased over the past decade, lip fillers consistently had higher search volumes. The study highlights the need for further research on patient demographics and satisfaction to better understand these procedures.

Share your thoughts by answering today’s poll and read about these popular aesthetic techniques for lips.

POLL: “Lip Flips” or Lip Filler? Analyzing the Latest Trends in Lip Augmentation 

It is time to consider non-pulse dye lasers in pediatric populations, Deepti Gupta, MD, shared at the Society for Pediatric Dermatology 37th Annual Pre-AAD Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida.

 Gupta, a pediatric dermatologist at Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington School of Medicine, provided a comprehensive overview of the role of lasers in pediatric dermatology. Her presentation focused on the use of laser hair removal for various medical conditions in pediatric patients, emphasizing both the therapeutic benefits and practical considerations of laser treatments in this population.

Although many pediatric dermatologists are familiar with pulse dye lasers, the use of non-pulse dye lasers, such as Alexandrite and diode lasers, remains less widespread, Gupta explained. She underscored the potential of these lasers as valuable tools for treating conditions such as congenital birthmarks, pigmented lesions, scarring, and hair removal in pediatric patients with underlying medical conditions.

Laser's role in broadening the pediatric toolbox

One of the key takeaways from Gupta’s session was the importance of tailoring laser treatments to the unique needs of pediatric patients. Unlike adults, children require additional considerations regarding pain management, tolerability, and treatment logistics. She emphasized the need for a multidisciplinary approach, involving the right support team to ensure safe and effective treatments.

Gupta also addressed concerns regarding the potential side effects of laser treatments in pediatric patients, including risks of dyspigmentation, blistering, and scarring. She posed critical questions regarding the long-term efficacy of early laser interventions, such as whether treatment in childhood increases the likelihood of recurrence or provides lasting results.

A crucial aspect of laser therapy, she noted, is engaging in shared decision-making with families. Educating patients and caregivers about the number of sessions required, expected discomfort, and potential outcomes helps set realistic expectations. She compared laser treatments to alternative modalities, such as surgical excision, highlighting how lasers may reduce surgical morbidity and improve long-term cosmetic outcomes. By sharing the pros and cons with families, clinicians can empower them to make the best treatment decision for the child.

Reflecting on the broader landscape of pediatric dermatology, Gupta expressed enthusiasm about the increasing availability of US Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for chronic pediatric dermatologic conditions. She is eager to see how expanding therapeutic options, including both lasers and systemic treatments, will shape the future of pediatric dermatology.

Beyond the clinical insights, Gupta emphasized the value of the AAD Annual Meeting as a forum for knowledge exchange and collaboration. Like many others, she appreciates the opportunity to engage with fellow dermatologists, learn about emerging advancements, and collectively enhance patient care.

Gupta said she hoped her session would help clinicians better understand the evolving role of lasers in pediatric dermatology, and she encouraged dermatologists not to shy away from integrating these tools into their practice, ultimately expanding treatment options and improving patient outcomes.

2025 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting

1. Gupta D. "Beyond PDL: Lasers for the Pediatric Dermatologist." Presented at: Society for Pediatric Dermatology 37th Annual Pre-AAD Annual Meeting; March 6, 2025; Orlando, Florida.  

Deepti Gupta, MD, highlighted the potential of non-pulse dye lasers, such as Alexandrite and diode lasers, in pediatric dermatology, particularly for conditions like congenital birthmarks and pigmented lesions. She emphasized the importance of tailoring treatments to pediatric needs, considering pain management and treatment logistics. Gupta also discussed the necessity of shared decision-making with families, addressing potential side effects and comparing laser treatments to surgical alternatives. She expressed optimism about the expanding therapeutic options in pediatric dermatology and encouraged clinicians to integrate lasers into their practice for improved patient outcomes.

Deepti Gupta, MD, discussed the importance of lasers at the Society for Pediatric Dermatology 37th Annual Pre-AAD Annual Meeting.

Lasers' Role in Broadening the Pediatric Toolbox 

“I want to set the stage for us in understanding what [hidradenitis suppurativa] HS is and what it isn't,” Colleen Cotton, MD, told attendees of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology's 37th Annual Pre-AAD (American Academy of Dermatology) Meeting in Orlando, Florida.

 Although it is still evolving, she explained it is considered “an inflammatory skin disease, a condition of the hair follicle is not a disease of sweat glands. It is not an infection, it is not a result of poor hygiene; these are things that many of your patients may have heard or seen on the internet.”

“It is multifactorial,” added Cotton, assistant professor of dermatology and assistant professor of pediatrics at George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences. “There are factors of follicular occlusion, hormones, obesity and insulin resistance, bacterial imbalance, the way that your immune system functions in general. And the importance of each of those different factors can be wildly different from one patient to another, which kind of impacts which treatments we ultimately decide to use. And then also recognizing that this is a chronic condition and progressive that may have periods of flares, but it's always kind of going—this is not something that acutely starts and stops.”

Cotton used 3 cases to help illustrate what HS is, what it is, and how to treat it. The first case was a girl aged12 years who presented with a history of boils under her armpit, with a family history of similar issues. The patient reported no evidence of drainage or pain in between episodes.

In mild cases, like this way, Cotton likes to start simple and, to some degree, follow the patient’s lead. She suggested the use of maintenance antimicrobial wash (eg, chlorhexidine gluconate 4% [Hibiclens]; benzoyl peroxide wash [5-10%], zinc pyrithione [eg, Head and Shoulders]). She also suggested a topic regimen to start, and suggested considering antibiotics (eg, clindamycin 1%, which comes as gel, lotion, wipes, solution) and resorcinol (phenol derivative with keratolytic properties; compounded). Oral antibiotics (eg, doxycycline) could be considered for 2 to 4 weeks for more severe flares, she added.

Her plan of attack is highly dependent on the patient and their needs, and she asks about where they struggle and what they are willing to try. She also works with them on their triggers to the right treatment strategy.

The second case she presented demonstrated the importance of an early diagnosis to strike during the best window of opportunity to impact the disease. The patient was a girl aged 15 years who presented with recurrent boils 2 to 3 times per year for the last 2 years. With a BMI in the 99 percentile, she has been told she is pre-diabetic and is trying to manage her weight via diet.

Again, Cotton emphasized comorbidities play an important role in determining the treatment strategy, and she highlighted the importance of team approach. She works closely with a psychologist and an adolescent medicine specialist to help hone the treatment approaches. She also has clinicians in other areas that she can reach out to, as needed.

Cotton told attendees she takes patients on what she likes to call a “medication march.” She starts with treatments that fast-acting to get buy-in from her patients and shows them they can trust her. Then she moves to the agents that might take time to work. “The medication march can minimize side effects and improve adherence,” she told attendees.

For instance, she would start week 1 with clindamycin in the morning and evening, to be taken with food. In week 2, she would add rifampicin, morning and evening with food. Twice daily metformin would be added to the regimen in week 3, and trace elements (eg, zinc and copper) in week 4.

Intralesional triamcinolone might also be useful. She aims for 20-40 mg/mL and dilutes with lidocaine. Cotton finds ice packs to be especially helpful for pain, but also offers distraction, numbing cream, and vibration.

The next case was more severe, with the patient, aged 13, always having at least 1 active lesion, and often seeing scars left behind. She reported that she is not doing well in school.

“We have adalimumab because of model-informed drug development,” Cotton told attendees, adding that there have been no phase 3 trials for HS that included adolescents. To complicate matters, many insurance companies will require scarring before approving adalimubab. Cotton likes to use the HS-PGA, which she can use a moderate score of 3, with 0 abscesses, 0 draining fistulas, and at least 5 inflammatory nodules, to help get the treatment covered. 

There are also off-label medications for HS that have either been approved for other indications in children, including secukinumab and infliximab, that may be considered, she said.

For persistent/recurring abscesses or draining tunnel when lesions are not resolving with medications, Cotton finds deroofing can be highly effective. She described the process, and included some important considerations for clinicians considering this for their patients. For instance, she emphasized the importance of medical treatment (ie, antibiotics and biologics) before and after the procedure to reduce active inflammation at the surgical site at the time of deroofing as well as to facilitate healing and reduce recurrence risk. Similarly, there are times when it is ok for clinicians to consider performing the deroofing themselves (ie, when the area is smaller and appears uncomplicated). Especially for clinicians newer to the procedure, she recommended referring to more experienced clinicians when the area is large, complex, or requires general anesthesia. She also stressed the importance of teaching and supporting proper wound care following the procedure, and recommended connecting with a wound care team.

Importantly, Cotton said patients are generally happy with the results following deroofing, and quoted data from a study that found 76% of patients were “very satisfied” with their surgical results.

Lastly, there may be times when inpatient care is warranted, Cotton said. She told the story of a patient with severe HS who presented with suicidal ideation. The young patient received a psych consult, who admitted to suicidal thoughts when the outbreaks were hardest for her. She received treatment and left the hospital 3 to 4 days letter feeling better physically and mentally.

Cotton shared additional thoughts to consider when treating patients. For instance, in pediatric populations, she is seeing more syndromic HS. In those cases, she likes biologics on fast track. Cotton also noted there has been an increase in immune dysregulation masquerading as HS. “If a patient is not responding or is getting worse on biologics, test for immune issues,” she cautioned attendees.

Although there has been some excitement over the possibility of leveraging GLP-1 for HS, Cotton is more cautious. She told attendees she was initially excited, but has found “it is magical for some, but nothing for others.” If the HS is related to insulin issues, Cotton said it might respond better.

For more conference coverage and expert insights, 

1. Cotton C. Advanced hidradenitis suppurativa for the pediatric dermatologist. Presented at: the 37th Annual SDP Pre-AAD Meeting; March 6, 2025; Orlando, Florida.

2. Ravi S, Miles JA, Steele C, Christiansen MK, Sayed CJ. Patient Impressions and Outcomes After Clinic-Based Hidradenitis Suppurativa Surgery. 

Colleen Cotton, MD, shared clinical tips in treating HS in pediatric patients at the annual SPD Pre-AAD Meeting. 

Michael Halloran, MBA, CFP

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