Energy-based devices provide advanced treatments in dermatology

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Energy-based devices are emerging within dermatology, showing improvements in technology and outcomes, according to a presenter at South Beach Symposium.

One of the devices described by Michael H. Gold, MD, dermatologic surgeon and founder and medical director of Gold Skin Care Center and Tennessee Clinical Research Center in Nashville, is Sofwave (Sofwave), a noninvasive, high-intensity, high-frequency ultrasound technology with real-time control and accurate integrated cooling for skin tightening. It covers larger areas of the body with shorter treatment durations; full face and neck treatment takes 30 to 35 minutes. This device is FDA cleared, and Gold will be involved in the next round of studies in which researchers will be looking at two Sofwave treatments over a 3-month period.

In red light therapy, the Revian Red system (Revian), an FDA-cleared device for androgenetic alopecia, has a dual wavelength mechanism that stimulates the release of nitric oxide, enhancing hair follicle growth. Gold referenced a pivotal study from Australia in which quantitative scalp hair growth was greater with Revian Red compared with sham device, with no device-related adverse events reported.

“So, we’ll see what happens with this, but I’m excited about it, and I haven’t been excited about hair caps for a long time,” Gold said during his presentation.

The Venus Bliss (Venus Concept) consists of a 1,064 nm laser for noninvasive lipolysis and the MP² applicator to increase fibroblast production and tissue-tightening effects. The treatment is comfortable for patients and easy for physicians to apply.

The dermatology spectrum is also seeing improvements in microneedling regarding the depth and accuracy of the needles, according to Gold.

“One of the studies I’m doing right now is actually wave frequency devices, getting a hands-free treatment to the face and neck. We’re tightening your face and submental fat reduction that the patient wears like a mask,” Gold said. “And that study should be done — hopefully we’ll be presenting for you guys in the next 3 to 4 months. So, there’s a lot happening in our space.” – by Erin T. Welsh

Reference:

Gold MH. What is new in energy-based devices. Presented at: South Beach Symposium; Feb. 6-9, 2020; Miami Beach, Florida.

Disclosure: Gold reports he is a consultant, investigator and speaker for Sofwave, Revian, Venus Concept and InMode.