The Efficacy and Safety of a Single Treatment of High-Intensity, High-Frequency, Non-Focused Ultrasound Parallel Beams for Facial Acne Scars in Asian Patients: A Preliminary Study.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory disease that often leads to changes in skin texture. While cosmetic improvement of acne scars is achievable, complete restoration remains challenging. One promising treatment is synchronous ultrasound (US) parallel beam technology, a noninvasive device that targets the mid-dermis while preserving the epidermis. This technology induces controlled thermal injury, stimulating neo-collagenesis and neo-elastinogenesis, which contribute to the improvement of atrophic acne scars.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and safety of high-intensity, high-frequency, non-focused US parallel beams for the treatment of facial acne scars in Asian patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fourteen subjects, aged 24-55 years, underwent a single US treatment and were evaluated for improvement in facial acne scars in a retrospective study. The follow-up period extended up to 8 months after treatment. Pre- and post-treatment photographs were assessed by a blinded dermatologist using the physician global aesthetic improvement scale (PGAIS) and the acne scar severity (ASS) scale. Scar volume was measured using the Antera 3D software. Pain perception was assessed immediately after treatment using an 11-point scale. Any safety concerns were recorded and examined.

RESULTS: Fourteen Thai subjects, with a mean age of 43 years, showed significant improvement in depression volumes (small, medium, and large) at follow-up visits compared to baseline. From PGAIS results, all treated areas showed improvement. The mean pain score was 3.94. No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION: Synchronous US parallel beam technology appears to be a promising and safe option for treating acne scars in Asian patients.