Photopneumatic Technology Offers Promising Alternative for Acne Treatment

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology suggests that the TheraClearX System is a promising and effective option for treating a broad spectrum of acne conditions, potentially offering relief to many patients with acne. Notably, this system has received clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of mild to moderate inflammatory, comedonal, and pustular acne on all skin types.

The TheraClearX X Acne System combines broadband pulsed light and vacuum suction technology. This unique combination of treatment modalities is designed to mechanically clear congested follicles and target endogenous porphyrins produced by Cutibacterium acnes and other acnegenic bacteria.

The researchers delve into the proposed mechanism of action, treatment advantages, treatment protocols, and real-world outcomes associated with the TheraClearX System in this study.

Treatment protocols with TheraClearX involve a series of steps, including gentle cleansing with a warm washcloth to prepare the skin and facilitate comedone extraction. Energy and vacuum settings are adjusted based on individual patient characteristics and the areas being treated. The treatment typically consists of a double pulse with 2 passes over the entire face, with patients generally undergoing weekly treatments for 4 to 5 sessions, depending on the severity of their acne.

Patients undergoing TheraClearX treatments experienced a 50% or greater reduction in lesion counts after the first treatment. Furthermore, these treatments resulted in a visible reduction in redness around acne lesions, a decrease in crusting, and a general improvement in skin texture. High patient adherence rates were attributed to the treatment's comfort, and patients also reported reduced skin oiliness.

Moreover, patients with hyperpigmentation from acne noticed a more even skin tone after their initial treatment, whereas those with large pores observed a reduction in pore size and an enhancement in skin texture. Importantly, the treatment exhibited no significant adverse side effects, with minor purpura being the most commonly reported, resolving within 24 to 72 hours posttreatment. Immediate posttreatment skin reactions were limited to mild and transient erythema, which typically resolved within 30 minutes. “Our experience to date demonstrates that TheraClearX treatments are well tolerated by patients and effective for the treatment of a wide range of mild to severe acne,” concluded the study authors. “There was little to no discomfort during treatments and no downtime. No anesthetics or numbing gels were used prior to treatment. Most noticeably, patients noted an immediate reduction in redness post first treatment.”

Reference
Munavalli G. Photopneumatic Technology for the treatment of mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris-a review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2023;16(6 Suppl 2):S4-S6.