AviClear laser — a new way to eradicate acne

As you’ve likely noticed, the dermatology field is continually developing new and innovative treatments, whether it’s a device or an injectable or a prescription medication. And as you’ve likely also noticed, our dermatologist founder Dennis Gross, MD, doesn’t bring every single new thing into his office, preferring to wait and see the research before jumping on any bandwagons. So the fact that he’s introducing the AviClear laser — recently cleared by the FDA to reduce mild, moderate, and severe acne — to his New York City practice is a pretty big deal.

What does the AviClear laser do?

Normally, oil flows from a sebaceous gland to the skin’s surface and is washed away. However, unhealthy sebaceous glands not only make too much oil, they also produce a low-quality type with a sludge-like consistency. This thick oil tends to get stuck on its trip to the surface, mixing with dead skin cells and eventually leading to breakouts. The AviClear laser is unique because its wavelength homes in on sebaceous glands, specifically, and destroys sebocytes (sebum-producing cells) — something no other laser does. Destroying sebocytes lowers skin’s overall oil production. Not only does this help clear existing breakouts, but future flareups are shorter, less frequent, and less intense. The AviClear laser is the first and only energy-based device to receive FDA clearance for treating the three levels of acne — mild, moderate, and severe.

What does the AviClear laser replace?

Until now, the last stop on the road to getting rid of acne was one or more courses of Accutane, after all else failed. A prescription drug taken orally, Accutane (aka isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative) is incredibly effective at eliminating acne. It’s also incredibly fraught with side effects, such as birth defects, depression, and skin overdried to the point of peeling. Plus, monthly blood tests are required of those taking Accutane, due to the medication’s impact on the body’s lipid levels. 

Accutane has always been a last resort, not a first choice, when it comes to resolving acne. That said, Accutane was also the only available treatment targeting the sebaceous glands. (It shrinks them to reduce oil production.) However, with the debut of the AviClear laser, dermatologists now have another way to slow the sebum factory in the sebaceous glands, and it’s one that doesn’t carry the same health risks as its pill predecessor. 

Who is the AviClear laser for?

The AviClear laser has been proven safe for all skin tones and types. AviClear is the first and only FDA cleared laser for mild to severe acne. 

What is an AviClear laser treatment like?

The actual AviClear session itself feels like a rubber band lightly snapping on skin. Topical numbing creams and other pain mitigators aren’t necessary. There’s no downtime associated with an AviClear treatment, and patients are able to return to work directly afterward. Although doctors often recommend holding off on laser treatments until the fall and winter (when a patient has less of a chance of post-appointment UV exposure), AviClear sessions can be performed year-round. 

When will I see results from the AviClear laser? 

Doctors recommend a series of three 30-minute treatments over the course of eight weeks to get the full acne-reduction benefits. In clinical trials, participants reported seeing skin improvements about a month after the final AviClear session. Those with moderate or severe acne cases recorded a 93 percent reduction in inflammatory lesions within six months of their final treatment with AviClear.

Discover Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for All Your Skincare Needs