J Korean Med Sci.  2025 Mar;40(9):e118. 10.3346/jkms.2025.40.e118.

Emerging Innovations in Acne Management: A Focus on NonPharmacological Therapeutic Devices

• Hong JY
• Seok J
• Han HS
• Park KY

• KMID: 2565796
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2025.40.e118

Abstract

Acne is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the sebaceous glands, with approximately 80% of individuals experiencing it at some point in their lives. Among adolescents, the incidence is reported to exceed 85%. The disease can significantly impact both physical and emotional aspects of a person’s quality of life, leading to permanent scarring, poor self-image, depression, and anxiety. The standard first-line treatment for acne vulgaris includes conventional pharmacological approaches such as keratolytics, topical or oral antibiotics, retinoids, and hormonal agents. However, these treatments are not universally effective due to patient noncompliance, adverse drug effects, and the emergence of antibiotic resistance in Cutibacterium acnes, often resulting in high rates of recurrence. Consequently, non-pharmacological therapies have been developed as safe and effective alternatives or supplements to pharmacological treatment. These non-pharmacological approaches can serve as standalone treatment modalities, adjuncts to pharmacological therapy, or maintenance treatments. Current literature lacks comprehensive data on the classification of these non-pharmacological treatment options. This paper aims to provide a brief overview of recent research on the practical applications and potential mechanisms of nonpharmacological therapies for both acne and acne scars. Through elucidating the distinct mechanisms and therapeutic roles of these treatments, we aim to assist dermatologists and other healthcare providers in formulating more effective disease management strategies, thereby encouraging further research in this area.

Keyword

Acne; Acne Scar; Mechanism; Energy-Based Device

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Representative clinical images demonstrating the effects of photothermal therapy. Before treatment (A) and after photo-thermal therapy treatment (B). Improvement in the acne lesions. The figures are published under agreement of the patient.

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  Fig. 2 Representative clinical images demonstrating the effects of fractional cell regeneration.Before treatment (A) and after fractional cell regeneration treatment (B). Marked improvement in the keratosis pilaris lesions. The figures are published under agreement of the patient.

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