PracticalDermatology

In each issue, Practical Dermatology® magazine spotlights a new medication or device that dermatologists are recommending for patients. Here, Jeffrey S. Fromowitz, MD, the medical director, and managing partner at Dermatology of Boca in Boca Raton, FL, discusses Cutera’s AviClear, which is the first energy-based device to receive the FDA’s nod for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe acne in March 2022.

What is AviClear? How are you using it?

Jeffrey Fromowitz MD: AviClear targets acne at the source by selectively targeting the sebocytes and suppressing sebum production. In our practice, we see a lot of kids, teens, and adults who present with some form of chronic acne. We have several treatment protocols to offer these patients, depending on the number and type of lesions they have, their skin type, tolerance for downtime, and return visits, as well as price point. However, we have never before been able to offer them a clinically proven durable solution like AviClear.

How have the results been so far?

Dr. Fromowitz: One of the aspects that we were excited about is the results of clinical trials that demonstrated superior results over most of the treatment options currently on the market. Data showed that after a series of three AviClear treatment sessions, current and future breakout episodes were shorter, less intense, and less frequent. Another significant benefit for our patients is the results for acne clearance continue to improve over time, so this is a treatment that has been proven to offer long-term efficacy with a durable improvement in lesion counts.

Which acne patients are benefiting most from AviClear?

Dr. Fromowitz: AviClear has been clinically proven to be safe and effective for all skin types. Our practice attracts patients across all age groups, ethnicities, and skin types so we are seeing cases across the acne spectrum from mild, moderate to severe. We have a large population of women who struggle with acne into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. AviClear is a great fit for these patients who are motivated to try something that can offer long-lasting results and are willing to follow the protocols we customize for each of them.

Who performs the AviClear procedure in your practice?

Dr. Fromowitz: In our practice, for now, my dermatologist colleagues and I are currently using the system since it is early days. I anticipate that AviClear will be seamlessly delegated to a physician assistant, registered nurse, or nurse practitioner, depending on the state regulations where the practice is located.

Please share your treatment protocol/s and any pearls.

Dr. Fromowitz: For patients who are appropriate candidates for AviClear, we set up a three-treatment protocol with sessions spaced out by four weeks. It is critical to take baseline photos and track their progress over time. For those with noninflammatory lesions like open and closed comedones, we will custom tailor a topical regimen to complement their AviClear treatments. In most patients, this will include a prescription retinoid.