Devices in Acne and Rosacea: Best Practices

The presentation, titled "Devices in Acne and Rosacea: Best Practices," discusses the evolving role of lasers and devices in treating acne and rosacea. The speaker, who has experience with both traditional medications and devices, highlights the advancements made over the last nine years in this area. Initially, evidence supporting the effectiveness of lasers and devices for acne was limited, but recent developments, particularly with 1726 nanometer lasers, show promising results. These lasers, FDA-cleared in 2022, directly target sebum production, providing potential for significant acne reduction and improved treatment longevity, although multiple sessions are often required. Overviews of various devices, including photodynamic therapy and intense pulse light mechanisms, illustrate their distinct approaches to acne treatment. The speaker also shares comparative data from clinical trials, affirming substantial decreases in inflammatory lesions post-treatment, emphasizing the devices' potential for patients seeking alternative treatments. Regarding rosacea, the speaker notes that while lasers effectively treat persistent erythema, they struggle with transient flushing. The presenter concludes by emphasizing the importance of lasers not just as cosmetic tools but as significant options for improving patients' quality of life for both acne and rosacea, encouraging medical professionals to consider these technologies in their treatment plans.