What’s this new acne laser treatment system?

This week the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared another acne laser system for the treatment of mild to severe acne. The first one was approved back in March this year.

Both approved laser systems incorporate the use of a 1726nm wavelength which specifically targets the sebaceous gland. If you recall, the sebaceous gland is the gland responsible for acne. This wavelength can be used on all skin tones and all acne types, which is another huge bonus.

Over the years there have been laser therapies for acne inflammation and acne scarring but not specifically targeting the sebaceous glands. We currently have pulsed dye lasers fin the 585-595nm wavelength range to reduce redness due to acne. Although very good for reducing the redness, it doesn’t target the inflammation.

We also have ablative lasers and radiofrequency to help with scarring and marks after acne has occurred. Again, not specifically targeting the acne itself.

The current recommendations with these lasers is 3 treatments 1 month apart to down-regulate the activity of the sebaceous gland. Whilst we’re still understanding this laser system, it looks like the effects are longer term. Clinical trials have shown that future breakouts are shorter and less intense after laser treatment. are long term benefits to this laser treatment.

It is quite likely that this is going to be a ‘game changer’ because we’ve never had a laser quite like this before. It could potentially eliminate some of our standard treatments and certainly help patients that can’t take medications due to contraindications.