Description
Abstract
The earliest lesion to develop in acne vulgaris is the microcomedone which is the precursor of the clinical non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions. The microcomedone is caused by a growth change of keratinocytes lining the follicular canal, leading to follicular hypercornification. Topical retinoids work by normalising keratinocyte cell growth in the follicle and preventing microcomedone formation. Their use is indicated in patients with comedonal acne but they have a role in the treatment of all patients with acne. This article will highlight the role of topical retinoids in the treatment of acne and will give guidelines on their use.
