Microneedle for acne treatment: Recent advances in materials and technologies

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin disorders affecting millions of patients worldwide, its long-lasting inflammation greatly reduces life quality and causes negative psychosocial impacts. Conventional treatments often along with side effects and issues of patient compliance, and ineffective in treating severe conditions. In recent years, microneedle (MN) has emerged as a versatile therapeutic technology, owing to its minimally invasive, effective, and reduced side effects. However, there are few review articles that systematically summarize the progress of microneedles for the treatment of acne. Here conclude the material, function, and application of microneedle technology in the treatment of acne, with a particular focus on two types of anti-acne microneedle: drug-loaded microneedle (DMN) and radio-frequency microneedle (RMN). DMN facilitates targeted drug delivery to the skin's deeper layers, while RMN utilizes radio-frequency currents to stimulate collagen regeneration, thus addressing acne scarring. Additionally, future directions for advanced acne-treating microneedle technology are envisioned, such as diversified drug loading, multi-functionality, production process optimization, and personalized treatment. These different directions are expected to further enhance the safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction of microneedle acne treatments.