Photobiomodulation with non-thermal lasers: Mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses in dermatology and aesthetic medicine

• Published in: Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy Vol. 19; no. 4; pp. 190 - 198
• Main Authors: Nestor, Mark, Andriessen, Anneke, Berman, Brian, Katz, Bruce E., Gilbert, Dore, Goldberg, David J., Gold, Michael H., Kirsner, Robert S., Lorenc, Paul Z.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Taylor & Francis 19.05.2017
• Subjects: acne; aesthetic dermatology; body sculpting; consensus panel; Cosmetic Techniques - instrumentation; Esthetics; Evidence-Based Medicine; Female; Humans; Laser Therapy - statistics & numerical data; Lasers, Semiconductor - therapeutic use; Lasers, Solid-State - therapeutic use; low-level light therapy; Male; Non-thermal laser therapy; onychomycosis; Onychomycosis - therapy; photobiomodulation; Treatment Outcome; body sculpting; photobiomodulation; acne; consensus panel; low-level light therapy; onychomycosis; Non-thermal laser therapy; aesthetic dermatology
• ISSN: 1476-4172; 1476-4180
• DOI: 10.1080/14764172.2017.1293828

Background: Non-thermal laser therapy in dermatology, is a growing field in medical technology by which therapeutic effects are achieved by exposing tissues to specific wavelengths of light. Objectives: The purpose of this review was to gain a better understanding of the science behind non-thermal laser and the evidence supporting its use in dermatology. Methods: A group of dermatologists and surgeons recently convened to review the evidence supporting the use of non-thermal laser for body sculpting, improving the appearance of cellulite, and treating onychomycosis. Results: The use of non-thermal laser for body sculpting is supported by three randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled studies (N = 161), one prospective open-label study (N = 54), and two retrospective studies (N = 775). Non-thermal laser application for improving the appearance of cellulite is supported by one randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled study (N = 38). The use of non-thermal laser for the treatment of onychomycosis is supported by an analysis of three non-randomized, open-label studies demonstrating clinical improvement of nails (N = 292). Conclusions: Non-thermal laser is steadily moving into mainstream medical practice, such as dermatology. Although present studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of non-thermal laser for body sculpting, cellulite reduction and onychomycosis treatment, studies demonstrating the efficacy of non-thermal laser as a stand-alone procedure are still inadequate.