Breakthrough vaccine may finally cure acne for good
Photo: Scientists announce acne vaccine (Freepik)
Acne is something just about everyone deals with. Statistics show that up to 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 experience it. However, often, it doesn't go away and can persist into adulthood. Despite being so widespread, acne is still viewed as a cosmetic flaw rather than a medical condition, and treatment can be expensive and lengthy. Now, scientists have announced a vaccine against acne, Popular Mechanics reports.
Why do pimples appear at all?
Simply put, acne develops when hair follicles get clogged. Hormonal changes (during puberty, pregnancy, or menstruation) make the sebaceous glands work harder, producing excess sebum.
This excess sebum becomes an ideal food for bacteria living on the skin. As they multiply, inflammation develops, and those painful red pimples develop.
How will the vaccine work?
Researchers at Sanofi chose not to target sebum production but to control the bacteria. The vaccine, created using modern mRNA technology (similar to some COVID-19 vaccines), trains the immune system to produce antibodies against the bacteria that cause acne.
These antibodies don't eliminate the bacteria but prevent them from multiplying uncontrollably, stopping the inflammatory process. Animal studies have already shown high effectiveness, and human trials are now underway.
Jean-François Toussaint, head of vaccine development at Sanofi, notes that the drug has another global advantage. Today, antibiotics are often used to treat severe acne. An effective vaccine would significantly reduce their use.
"If we can reduce antibiotic use, we not only create value for the people who take the vaccine, but also for society as well, by reducing microbial resistance," he explained.
When will the miracle vaccine arrive?
For now, the drug is still in clinical trials. So it won't be available in pharmacies for at least a year or two. Researchers also expect some skepticism toward vaccination.
However, dermatologists believe the vaccine will be in high demand. It won't be part of mandatory immunization programs but will be offered as an option. If the drug proves safe, effective, and able to provide long-term remission without the need for daily creams or pills, many people suffering from acne will be eager to use it.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
