Home-Based Devices in Dermatology: A Systematic Review of Safety and Efficacy

May 2021 in “ Archives of Dermatological Research ”

Marc Cohen, Evan Austin, Natasha Masub, Alana Kurtti, Christopher D. George, Jared Jagdeo

intense pulsed light hair removal laser diodes androgenic alopecia low power radiofrequency wrinkles light-emitting diodes acne vulgaris ultraviolet B phototherapy psoriasis IPL hair loss LED UVB

TLDR Home-based skin care devices are generally safe and effective for hair removal, promoting hair growth, treating wrinkles and acne, but results for psoriasis treatment are mixed.

The systematic review analyzed 37 clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of home-based dermatological devices. The study found that home-based intense pulsed light devices were effective for hair removal, reducing hair count by over 50% in all randomized controlled trials. Laser diodes were found to increase hair growth in individuals with androgenic alopecia, while low power radiofrequency devices were effective for treating wrinkles. Light-emitting diodes were also found to be safe and effective for treating acne vulgaris. However, the evidence was mixed regarding the use of ultraviolet B phototherapy for psoriasis at home. All devices had favorable safety profiles with few significant adverse events. The review noted limitations, including a limited number of randomized controlled trials and a lack of data on long-term efficacy and safety.

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