Selective photothermolysis with a novel 1726 nm laser beam: A safe and effective solution for acne vulgaris
David S. Goldberg, Amogh Kothare, Margot Doucette, Arshdeep Kaur, Stephen J. Ronan, Jeffrey Fromowitz, Amer Hamidi‐Sakr
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Selective photothermolysis on sebaceous glands is an effective method for treating acne vulgaris (AV); however, safety, efficacy, and discomfort hinder its utilization in clinical settings. AIMS: The primary objective is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel 1726 nm laser with contact cooling to treat AV. METHODS: Seventeen patients aged 18 to 36 were enrolled and treated in this IRB-approved, single-center, open-label study. Patients received up to three facial laser sessions up to seven weeks apart. Follow-up visits happened ten days post-session and at the 4 and 12 weeks following the final session. The investigator assessed the severity of device-related adverse events (AEs). Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) and inflammatory lesion counts (ILC) were used as metrics to evaluate acne resolution and skin condition enhancement. Patients' perspectives on satisfaction and comfort using this technology were assessed using Subject Experience Questionnaires (SEQ). RESULTS: Safety assessment showed mild and transient AEs. All subjects tolerated anesthetics-free treatments well, with a mean treatment discomfort score of 4.9 ± 1.5. Compared to baseline, a statistically significant reduction in ILC (p = 0.003) of 52% to 56% is achieved four to twelve weeks following treatment. Long-term follow-ups showed progressive improvement 24 months post-treatment with a 97% reduction in ILC. SEQs revealed high subject satisfaction (71%) with psychosocial improvement three months post-treatment. CONCLUSION: The novel 1726 nm laser appears safe and effective for treating mild-to-severe acne. Acne resolution is apparent within the first month and progresses beyond the study duration.