Energy-Based Devices in Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

BACKGROUND Acne vulgaris is a chronic dermatologic complaint with a multifactorial cause. Traditionally, antibiotics and retinoids have been used to manage the condition; patient compliance has been an ongoing issue. A variety of energy-based devices have been reported to be effective in the treatment of acne vulgaris. OBJECTIVE To review and summarize the current literature specific to treatment of acne vulgaris with energy-based devices. METHODS A review of the current literature of energy-based devices used for the treatment of acne vulgaris. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Although limited randomized controlled trials for the treatment of acne have been performed, significant clinical improvement of acne vulgaris, especially of inflammatory lesions, has been demonstrated with a variety of energy-based devices. Newer approaches may lead to even better results.