Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. recently rolled out a consumer-directed ad campaign for clascoterone cream 1% (Winlevi, Sun Pharma) featuring Upland, CA-based dermatologist Sandra Lee, MD, popularly known as Dr. Pimple Popper.
The new campaign focuses on the role of sebum as a main cause of acne. WINLEVI is the first and only U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved topical acne treatment available in the U.S. that targets sebum production in the skin.
Dr. Lee spoke to The Dermatology Digest (TDD) about the campaign and the role that dermatologists can play in educating patients on the underlying pathophysiology of acne.
TDD: Why is this messaging so important?
Dr. Lee: “It is very important to educate both patients and caregivers on the connected role that sebum and hormones play in causing acne breakouts. Market research confirms my experience as a dermatologist, and what I know from other dermatology practices, in that teenagers don’t want to talk about their acne yet may internalize feelings of shame. We wanted to make talking about acne more approachable for teenagers, young adults, and parents, some of whom also are dealing with acne. To do this, I aligned with Sun Pharma on using humor combined with education. Used appropriately, humor can be a great way to take the sting out of a sensitive topic like acne.”
TDD: What can dermatologists do to really hit this message home?
Dr. Lee: “Dermatologists should be educating patients and their caregivers about the underlying cause of acne, including the connected role of sebum and hormones, to help them understand that acne is a medical condition and not their fault. This is very important, as it is well documented that acne can cause emotional distress especially in teenagers. To combat patient self-consciousness and blame, dermatologists should also debunk misconceptions about the causes of acne. Popular myths are that eating junk food, wearing too much makeup, or not washing one’s face properly cause acne. It’s always wise to practice good hygiene, diet, and overall lifestyle, but none of the latter practices in and of themselves cause acne. Finally, dermatologists should make sure their patients are practicing a good skin care regimen, which may involve over-the-counter and/or prescription products. If a patient is using a prescription, the dermatology professional who prescribed it should ensure that the patient is following label directions.
