The 1,450-nm diode laser reduces sebum production in facial skin:: A possible mode of action of its effectiveness for the treatment of acne vulgaris

Background and Objectives: Over the last several years, several light-based systems have been employed for the treatment of acne vulgaris. The 1,450-nm diode laser has been shown to improve acne, and this has been suggested to be due to effects on sebaceous glands. However, an effect on sebum production has not been demonstrated. The objective of this study was to evaluate if the 1,450-nm diode laser indeed reduces sebum production. Study Design/Materials and Methods: Eight patients with a history of acne were recruited and treated with the 1,450-nm diode laser on the right side of the nose over a 6-week period, for a total of three treatments. Sebum production was quantified using the Sebutape method. Results: The number of sebum-producing follicles was reduced by 8.5 and 16.7% at weeks 4 and 6, respectively (P<0.05). A significant reduction in total collected sebum (- 18%) was observed at week 6. Conclusion: This data suggests that the clinical effectiveness of the 1,450-nm diode laser may be based, at least in part, on its effects on sebaceous glands, with subsequent reduction in sebum production.