Ablative fractional lasers, non-ablative fractional lasers, vascular lasers, and radiofrequency devices top the list of effective devices for acne scars.

Energy-based devices are the first-line treatments for a variety of acne scars, according to new international consensus recommendations published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine.

For the first time, 24 plastic surgeons and dermatologists from 12 different countries used a two-step modified Delphi method to make recommendations regarding the use of various energy-based devices for the treatment of acne scars. 

Energy-based devices – namely ablative fractional lasers, non-ablative fractional lasers, vascular lasers, and radiofrequency devices - top the list of effective devices, the panelists concluded.

“Patients without access to these treatments may not be receiving the best available care for optimal cosmetic results,” they wrote. “Future high-quality research and updated international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes should reflect this status.” Read the full reccomendations here.