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An acne vaccine could be on the way, but not everyone is convinced.

Photo credit: PeopleImages - Getty Images
Photo credit: PeopleImages - Getty Images

From Cosmopolitan

Acne is one of the most common complaints dermatologists deal with, and it affects an incredible amount of people. But despite new treatments constantly cropping up, and cult face creams going viral for their healing abilities, there’s never been a true cure for the skin condition.

However, a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology reports that a new vaccine is in the works - and it’s hoped it will change the way we view skincare forever.

The vaccine, which would be the first of its kind, is designed to reduce the body’s inflammatory response to the toxins released by bacteria in the skin. So far it's only been tested in mice and human-tissue samples, but researchers are optimistic about the effects. In a press release Chun-Ming Huang, one of the lead researchers working on the vaccine, said: “the potential impact of our findings is huge for the hundreds of millions of individuals suffering from acne."

Photo credit: PeopleImages - Getty Images
Photo credit: PeopleImages - Getty Images

Sadly, we're a long way from seeing an acne vaccine available to everyone - but the researchers are currently preparing for a clinical trial in humans in the hope of getting it off the ground.

Would it really work?

Dermatologists have mixed thoughts about the vaccine, since bacteria is just one of the causes of acne - hormones, genetics and even products can also contribute to the skin condition.

Dr Rikin Parekh, Leading Dermatologist at Avanti Aesthetics Academy in Harley Street and Skin trainer at ZO Skinhealth, explained that growth of bacteria like P.Acnes is what results in the skin condition. He added:

"Targeting P.Acnes with a vaccine could be considered a more precise and less toxic way than chemical therapies, however not all P.Acne bacteria is bad, as it’s made up of different strains, and while some cause acne, others are beneficial. If it targets the wrong strains, the vaccine could possibly worsen the patient’s condition by disturbing the skin on acellular level.

"Everyone’s epidermis is different so a ‘one vaccination fits all’ ideal may not be completely successful. Ultimately, a good skincare regime tailored to a patient’s skin type using an appropriate cleanser, exfoliative anda toner which reduces sebum will help reduce and prevent acne from forming."

Find our pick of the best cleansers to suit your skin type.

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