Skin conditions affect 1 in 3 people globally, yet enrolling patients in dermatology clinical trials still remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges. If we’re going to provide solutions for dermatological issues, we must think differently about recruitment and tailor our approach specifically to these patient populations.
Traditional enrollment methods often fail to account for the unique needs of dermatology patients. Whether due to social stigma, high competition for patients, or increasingly specific eligibility criteria, enrollment delays continue to hinder research progress.
To overcome these barriers, sponsors and study teams need a strategy that blends personalized outreach, streamlined screening, and consistent engagement.
How can sponsors and study teams overcome these obstacles, maximize retention, and accelerate enrollment? Here are six things leaders should keep in mind during their next dermatology study.
1. Can you loosen the criteria without compromising the science?
More than 60% of studies analyzed by JAMA included at least one “poorly justified” exclusion criteria—a signal that many study teams may be unintentionally limiting access. Overly restrictive inclusion and exclusion rules can limit enrollment for patients, and revisiting your criteria may open who can qualify and benefit.
For example, if a trial excludes participants who have used over-the-counter acne treatments within the last 60 days, modifying that window (or allowing certain non-prescription products) could increase the eligible population without compromising data integrity.
Not every criterion can (or should) be adjusted—but some can, as long as it’s based on real-world evidence and proven best practices. Balancing scientific rigor with patient-centric design is crucial to driving enrollment in a highly competitive space.
2. Most patients don't know clinical trials are an option – so change that
In 2017, a JAMA survey of over 12,000 people revealed that 90% believed clinical research was safe. But nearly 45% admitted that clinical trials weren’t even considered when talking to their doctors about treatment options. Patients with skin conditions typically don’t go further than their primary care physician when looking for answers.
To bridge that gap, your recruitment efforts should do more than just promote the latest trial. They should also introduce the concept of clinical trials as a viable treatment choice. Most patients aren’t actively seeking clinical trials—they’re simply looking for solutions. Frame your trial as part of that solution.
3. Automated pre-screening isn’t enough – catch small details with expert re-screening
Pre-screening for dermatology trials presents unique challenges, as many conditions can be difficult for patients to correctly assess themselves. This often leads to a higher volume of unqualified participants. To minimize screen failures, pre-screener landing pages should include clear images and descriptions to help patients identify their condition more accurately.
Equally important is a second layer of screening by real, trained staff. Live screeners can validate patient responses, confirm visual symptoms, and catch small details that automated screeners often miss. This not only improves the quality of enrolled participants but also builds trust with patients, who often have questions that benefit from a human touch.
4. Dermatology patients need to feel supported at every step along the way
For many patients, joining a dermatology trial isn’t just a medical decision—it’s an emotional one. In fact, research shows nearly 30% of patients with facial skin conditions experience emotional disorders or social stigma. Building trust is essential.
Assign a dedicated contact who can answer questions and offer reassurance. That personal connection can go a long way in making patients feel understood.
Also, be responsive. Whether it’s a quick question about side effects or what to expect throughout the study, using whatever channel the patient prefers (phone, text, or email) and providing fast, clear answers can make a big difference.
5. Patient qualification isn’t a one-time task – it's an ongoing process
Skin conditions can change due to environmental factors, stress, or changes in treatment adherence, meaning a patient who qualifies at screening may not stay within eligibility parameters throughout.
In dermatology trials, ongoing patient monitoring is essential to ensure participants remain a good fit for the study all the way through. Regular check-ins help researchers catch these shifts early, adjust as needed, and avoid protocol deviations that could impact trial outcomes.
Dermatology trials also often rely on patient-reported outcomes and photographic assessments, which require consistent engagement and proper technique—something that can lapse without regular support. By staying closely connected with participants, sites can identify risks early, provide support, and ensure that enrolled patients remain both eligible and motivated to complete the trial.
6. Dermatology conditions require more time to diagnose – consider structuring your study team differently
In a 2023 survey, the Association of Clinical Research Professionals found that 63% of respondents say site staffing and retention is the top issue impacting their site today. Reducing site burden is key to accelerating enrollment across the board, but especially dermatology. Site staff often carry the extra responsibility of confirming complex or visually subtle skin diagnoses—something that can take time, especially when differentiating between similar conditions or assessing disease severity.
Having a dedicated site coordinator to project manage day-to-day operations can make all the difference. From unifying study team efforts with recruitment and enrollment platforms like 1nData to aligning visit schedules, a coordinator can act as the operational bridge between the study team and technology partners. This role ensures nothing slips through the cracks, like unlogged patient interactions or delayed follow-ups.
In dermatology trials, where time and attention are especially precious, that kind of structured support helps keep studies on track and enrollment moving.
Don’t just avoid delays. Reach LPI faster ahead of schedule. Connect with us today and learn how we can accelerate your dermatology trial timeline.
