All Clear
UK launch of AviClear marks exciting innovation in acne treatment
Cutera has launched AviClear, the first and original FDA-cleared energy device for the treatment of mild to severe acne.
AviClear’s 1726nm wavelength treats acne at the source by selectively targeting and suppressing the sebaceous gland safely and effectively. Designed with patient comfort in mind, AviClear is enhanced with AviCool™ contact cooling for an optimal and safe treatment experience.
AviClear stands as a formidable rival to traditional treatments like isotretinoin (Roaccutane), utilising cutting-edge technology to address acne at its core. AviClear is the only device that works directly on the sebaceous glands in the skin; its revolutionary 1726nm laser suppresses sebum production and provides a long-term solution for individuals dealing with acne of all severities.
Ahead of the launch, Cutera announced Dr Tapan Patel (Aesthetic Doctor, PHI Clinic) and Dr Anjali Mahto (Cosmetic Consultant, Dermatologist, Self London) as its UK and Ireland KOLs.
The duo co- presented a symposium on AviClear at the ACE conference earlier this month (March), as part of the official UK and Ireland launch of the device.
Having suffered from acne from an early age, Dr Mahto has a unique understanding of the patient journey. She says, “AviClear is one the most exciting developments in the world of acne in decades. I have wanted an AviClear device in my clinic since I saw the clinical trials in the US. I don’t think it’s possible to understate what a game-changer this will be for the treatment of acne. I’m genuinely so excited to introduce this new approach – and alternative to medication-based treatments – to my acne patients.”
Dr Patel adds, “I have patients of all ages, skin tones and types suffering with acne.
I am thrilled to be the first UK provider of AviClear, which significantly reduces the
appearance and occurrence of breakouts after only three 30-minute sessions, with no downtime.”
How AviClear works
“AviClear uses laser therapy to selectively target the sebaceous glands, suppressing their activity. This halts the overproduction of sebum, knocking out a key trigger for the onset of acne, much as oral medications such as isotretinoin aim to do. AviClear is an FDA-cleared laser that is a genuine breakthrough in the field of dermatology, offering a long-term solution for mild, moderate and even severe acne,” says Dr Mahto.
Treatment protocol
“The AviClear protocol consists of three 30-minute treatments spaced three to four weeks apart, with no downtime after each; it provides a convenient and highly effective solution for acne sufferers.”
FDA clearance and clinical trials
“AviClear was initially cleared by the FDA on March 24 2022 as the first energy device able to successfully treat moderate and severe acne. Subsequently, it received an additional FDA clearance as the first and only device achieving long-term results treating mild to severe inflammatory acne vulgaris. Clinical trials have demonstrated impressive results, with 90% of patients experiencing visible improvement six months after their third session. Long-term efficacy was confirmed with a 92% improvement rate in 12-month clinical data. These results are seriously impressive, and I genuinely believe AviClear will change the lives of those unable or unwilling to take such types of treatment.”
But just how does it hold up the tablished “gold standard” acne treatment, isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin versus AviClear in a snapshot
In the comparative analysis above, AviClear emerges as a game-changer, eliminating many of the drawbacks with existing treatments, such as the need for birth control, frequent blood tests, etc, and without most of the potential side-effects associated with isotretinoin. AviClear is also suitable for all skin types and tones.
Recent legislation introduced by the government will also affect how isotretinoin is prescribed, meaning that AviClear’s introduction to the UK is very timely. “AviClear comes at a pivotal time for acne treatment, offering a timely alternative in the face of recent legislative changes that add considerable extra overheads to the prescription process for isotretinoin, including the need for two prescribers for under-18s,” says Dr Mahto.
Joining Dr Patel and Dr Mahto on the AviClear faculty are Dr David Eccleston (Clinical Director of MediZen), Mr Kambiz Golchin (ENT Consultant, Facial Plastic Surgeon & Clinical Professor, Dr Rita Rakus Clinic) and Dr John Quinn (Cosmetic Doctor, Founder & Clinical Director of Quinn Clinics). They too are among the first UK and Ireland clinics to offer the AviClear system as part of the initial commercial rollout.