Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) as a promising therapeutic option for mild to moderate acne vulgaris: Clinical and non-invasive evaluation of two cases

Abstract

Background

Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial skin disease that may be triggered by the presence of the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes and is characterized by an increase in the sebum excretion. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) represents an innovative technological device that uses plasma, the fourth state of matter, to treat several skin conditions, considering its bactericidal potential and its efficacy in promoting tissue proliferation.

Objectives

In the light of its well-known antibacterial properties and its promising regenerative properties, we assumed that CAP could be highly effective to treat acne vulgaris both in its acute phase and in the long-term cicatricial period.

Methods

We reported the cases of two young patients affected by mild-moderate acne vulgaris of the face treated with CAP. In addition to the evaluation of inflammatory skin lesions, treatment efficacy was assessed by sebometry and trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) evaluation.

Results

In both patients, acne lesions reduced after treatment. Both sebum excretion parameters and TEWL improved considering basal values.

Conclusion

Despite the small number of patients enrolled, our data support CAP effectiveness in patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris poorly responsive to other conventional treatments.