
In the era of elaborate skincare routines, consumer trends often outpace evidence-based science. Research on popular high frequency (HF) devices, such as the wands commonly used for acne treatment, may offer valuable insights into their true effects on the skin microbiome.
What We Know:
Developed in the 19th century, HF therapy gained attention for its potential benefits in supporting lymphatic drainage, preventing hair loss and reducing wrinkles. By the early 20th century, it was recognised as a versatile treatment for various conditions, including skin infections, eczema and wounds, as well as ailments like migraines, neuralgia and even tuberculosis (Napp et al., 2015).
HF devices, also known as Violet Wands, function by delivering Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAPP) to the site of application, such as the face. This process releases bioactive components, including charged particles and reactive species like ozone and nitrogen oxides (Frommherz et al., 2022).
HF therapy ultimately lost popularity in the mid-20th century due to the rise of antibiotics and limited efficacy data. However, with increasing antibiotic resistance, plasma medicine (or CAPP) is gaining renewed interest. Recent studies suggest that HF devices may outperform traditional antiseptics in targeting wound pathogens, raising questions about their potential benefits for acne-prone skin and their impact on the skin microbiome (Daeschlein et al., 2015).
Industry Impact and Potential:
Recent research has demonstrated that HF therapy possesses a microbicidal effect on skin microbiota and pathogens in vitro, significantly reducing bacterial and fungal counts after just a brief treatment. Notably, one minute of HF application led to a significant reduction in C. acnes levels (Frommherz et al., 2022).
It is hypothesised that HF therapy increases ozone formation during application, suggesting that its primary antimicrobial effects stem from ozone and the oxidative stress it induces in microbes. Ozone is also recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties, further enhancing its efficacy in treating skin conditions (Frommherz et al., 2022).
Ultimately, the antiseptic properties of HF therapy present a promising alternative to antibiotics for managing conditions like acne (Frommherz et al., 2022).
However, it is important to remember that not all HF devices available, especially cheaper options, are created equal; variations in voltage, frequency and design can affect their efficacy and safety.
Our Solution:
With a database of 25,000 microbiome samples and 4,000 ingredients, plus a global network of testing participants, Sequential provides customised solutions for microbiome studies and product formulation. Our commitment to developing microbiome-safe products ensures the preservation of biome integrity, making us an ideal partner investigating the skin, scalp, oral and vaginal microbiome.
References:
Daeschlein, G., Napp, M., von Podewils, S., Scholz, S., Arnold, A., Emmert, S., Haase, H., Napp, J., Spitzmueller, R., Gümbel, D. & Jünger, M. (2015) Antimicrobial Efficacy of a Historical High-Frequency Plasma Apparatus in Comparison With 2 Modern, Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Devices. Surgical Innovation. 22 (4), 394–400. doi:10.1177/1553350615573584.
Frommherz, L., Reinholz, M., Gürtler, A., Stadler, P.-C., Kaemmerer, T., French, L. & Clanner-Engelshofen, B.M. (2022) High-frequency devices effect in vitro: promissing approach in the treatment of acne vulgaris? Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia. 97, 729–734. doi:10.1016/j.abd.2021.09.015.
Napp, J., Daeschlein, G., Napp, M., von Podewils, S., Gümbel, D., Spitzmueller, R., Fornaciari, P., Hinz, P. & Jünger, M. (2015) On the history of plasma treatment and comparison of microbiostatic efficacy of a historical high-frequency plasma device with two modern devices. GMS hygiene and infection control. 10. doi:10.3205/dgkh000251.
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