Clinical applicability of a 1 450 nm diode laser as adjunctive treatment for refractory acne

Acne is a multifactorial disease of the pilosebaceous units of the face and trunk, most commonly affecting young adolescents. Acne still represents the most common concern in dermatologic consultations and despite aggressive multi-treatment regimens, many patients demonstrate a poor response. A number of recent studies have evaluated the role of laser and light therapy in the treatment of acne vulgaris, with variable clinical outcomes. Among them, a 1450 nm diode laser has been shown to improve refractory acne in a clinical setting. The content of this manuscript draws upon current literature and will critically review the role of mid-infrared lasers as adjunctive therapy for acne.