Facial acne solutions: Galderma launches “first and only” tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide combo

28 Mar 2022 --- Dermatology company Galderma has launched the microencapsulated-powered Twyneo Cream – the first to combine 0.1% tretinoin and 3% benzoyl peroxide (BPO) to treat moderate to severe facial acne.

“Twyneo Cream may help teens with acne – especially boys – struggling with generic tretinoin or adhering to complex treatment routines since it’s a once-daily, potent combination that can be used any time of day,” believes Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, founder of Tone Dermatology.

The patented microencapsulation technology combines tretinoin and BPO for its stable and gradual release into the skin. This allows for visible results within two to four weeks, says Galderma.Twyneo is recommended for adults and patients nine years of age and older.

“TWYNEO Cream is a novel and exciting medical advance because its microencapsulation technology enables the combination of BPO with the highest concentration of tretinoin available,” says Hillary Baldwin, MD, medical director of Acne Treatment & Research Center and principal investigator for the Twyneo Cream clinical trials. 

“While these two treatments can be difficult to tolerate in high concentrations, Twyneo Cream was well tolerated.” 

The active ingredients in Twyneo are encapsulated in silica core microcapsule shells. This protects tretinoin from the oxidizing effects of BPO, hence allowing the ingredients to be combined. 

“Effective prescription acne treatments currently involve multi-step regimens because there is rarely a single treatment option that addresses the multiple causes of the skin condition,” continues Robinson.

Early results in trials
Twyneo was tested in two 12-week clinical trials. 

Some participants found results in two weeks of using Twyneo Cream with clearing skin over time. “Sol-Gel Technologies received FDA approval for Twyneo Cream in 2021 and has granted exclusive rights to Galderma to commercialize the treatment in the US,” shares Galderma. 

Reportedly, there was a 25% decrease in pimples within two weeks and a 58-66% decrease at 12 weeks. 27-41% of people achieved clear or almost clear skin at the end of the trial. 

Additionally, more than half of the participants were satisfied at week two. By week 12, eight in ten people were satisfied with their results. 

Advice to young users
Acne affects 85% of Americans aged 23 and 24, triggering sadness, poor body image and low self-esteem.

Despite the common occurrence of acne during teenage years, as many as 50% report experiencing unfair treatment at school due to acne, shares Galderma.

The company finds that teens usually fail over-the-counter acne treatments.

The Twyneo Cream is reported to be well tolerated with mild to moderate side effects that decreased over time. Common side effects included “application site pain, dryness, erythema (redness) and exfoliation.”

Galderma recommends sunscreen and protective clothing while using the product, as sun exposure may cause photosensitivity and UV sensitivity. Users should monitor hypersensitivity and discontinue using Twyneo due to adverse reactions. Users are encouraged to discontinue use in first evidence of sunburn.

Twyneo Cream will be commercially available this Spring.

Edited by Venya Patel