New Study: Smoothbeam(R) Laser Provides Long-Term Acne Solution

Main Category: Dermatology
Article Date: 16 Aug 2006 - 0:00 PDT

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The most commonly diagnosed skin disorder in the U.S. and the number one reason for a patient's visit to a dermatologist -- acne -- can now have long-term clearance with Smoothbeam(R) laser treatment, according to a recent study published in The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. While previous research shows the Smoothbeam laser effectively treats the root cause of acne -- overactive, oil-producing sebaceous glands -- this is the first study to identify the length of time patients can experience clearing, regardless of their skin type.

As acne affects nearly 80 percent of the population worldwide, the need for effective and lasting treatments continues to grow. That's one reason why researchers treated twenty patients of varying skin tones, with three Smoothbeam laser treatments at four-week intervals. The study found a 75 percent reduction in the number of acne lesions in all subjects after the final treatment, with significant improvement seen after the first laser treatment. Additionally, acne scarring was improved by 26-50 percent in all patients studied post treatment.

"While the Smoothbeam laser is known to effectively treat acne, this study is the first that demonstrates the long-term clearing of acne with laser treatment in patients of all skin types," said Dr. Ming H. Jih, lead investigator.

Free of the side effects often associated with topical and oral treatments such as Accutane, this study also found Smoothbeam laser treatments produced improvements in overall skin texture and quality of complexion.

"In addition to the safety and uniform clinical efficacy of the laser treatment, the added benefits for acne scarring and reduction in skin oiliness make this an ideal treatment for all patients with acne, especially those who did not respond to other treatments," Dr. Ming H. Jih added.

"The response from patients who've tried numerous other treatments with limited results and found real success in the Smoothbeam treatment is exciting," said Dr. Paul Friedman, study investigator and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. "The Smoothbeam laser is truly a major advance in the clinical treatment of acne vulgaris and has an excellent safety profile."

The first FDA approved laser for acne treatment, the Smoothbeam laser treatment targets the source of acne-overactive, oil-producing sebaceous glands. Smoothbeam emits a wavelength of light that generates heat in and around the sebaceous glands, altering the structure of the glands and thereby reducing the over-production of acne-causing sebum.

About Smoothbeam:

Smoothbeam creates a mild thermal injury just below the skin's surface, which alters the structure of the sebaceous glands, the root cause of acne. This allows for effective, long-lasting acne clearance. Smoothbeam emits a wavelength of light that is strongly absorbed by water in the skin. As the laser penetrates into the skin, heat is generated in and around the sebaceous glands in the upper layers of the skin. The integrated dynamic cooling device (DCD(TM)) also emits a cooling spray, which allows preservation of the skin, thus minimizing treatment side effects. For more information about this treatment and how to locate a physician, call: 1-800-733-8550, ext 444.

About Candela:

Candela Corporation manufactures, and distributes innovative clinical solutions that enable physicians, surgeons, and personal care practitioners to treat selected cosmetic and medical conditions using lasers, aesthetic laser systems, and other advanced technologies. Founded near Boston in 1970, the company markets and services its products in over 70 countries from offices and distributors in the United States, Europe, Japan, China and other Asian locations. Candela established the aesthetic laser market 17 years ago, and currently has an installed base of 9,000 lasers worldwide. Candela is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer (Male/Female/Handicapped/Veteran). Visit Candela on the Web at http://www.candelalaser.com.

Safe Harbor Statement: Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that constitute Candela's current intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future, which are therefore inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. Such statements may relate to, among other things, our future revenue, gross margin, expense levels and earnings, our growth prospects, market acceptance of our products, the strength of our distribution channels, our ability to add new products, our ability to expand regulatory approvals and the liquidity of our common stock. The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward-looking statements include, among others: the cancellation or deferral of customer orders, dependence on a small number of strategic distribution relationships, difficulties in the timely development and market acceptance of new products, unanticipated increases in expenses, market developments that vary from the current public expectations concerning the growth of the laser industry, increased competitive pressures, changes in economic conditions, or difficulties in obtaining timely regulatory approvals. Further information on factors that could affect Candela's performance is included in Candela's periodic reports filed with the SEC, including but not limited to, Candela's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended July 2, 2005, and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Candela cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Candela expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statements to reflect any change in Candela's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Candela and Smoothbeam are registered trademarks of Candela Corporation.

Candela Corporation
http://www.candelalaser.com