Advancements in Acne Treatment with Microarray Technology

In the world of skincare, acne is a common and bothersome issue for many, prompting scientists to continually seek effective and safe solutions. One of the recent innovations in this field is acne patches equipped with microarray technology, developed to provide effective treatment without causing skin irritation.

What are Acne Patches with Microarray Technology?

Acne patches, also known as pimple patches, are therapeutic tools designed to absorb moisture and excess oils from the skin. These patches are made from advanced polymers, and some contain medications that help reduce inflammation or fight infection.

What sets these new patches apart is their use of microarray technology. This technique involves rows of tiny needles that penetrate the outer layer of the skin to deliver therapeutic compounds inside. Despite the effectiveness of this technology, there are challenges related to patch movement during use and potential skin irritation.

Development of the New Patches

Researchers, led by Cheon Fakhri Laiji and Young-Hee Kim, have developed a medical patch system with microarray technology that stays securely in place on the skin. They used a specialized 3D printer to create arrowhead-shaped needles, which help the patch adhere more effectively.

The patch was designed using hyaluronic acid, a viscous polymer commonly used in skincare products, and was mixed with antibacterial agents like salicylic acid and cannabis extract, or anti-inflammatory agents like niacinamide and chamomile extract.

Clinical Tests and Promising Results

These patches were clinically tested on 20 participants, who used the antibacterial patch on the first day, followed by an anti-inflammatory patch for an additional six days. The results showed that the patches dissolved into the skin within 30 to 90 minutes without pain or irritation.

After three days, participants observed an 81% reduction in acne lesions in treated areas compared to untreated pimples, and after seven days, the treated pimples disappeared completely. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in sebum production, the oily substance that causes acne.

Commercial Launch and Future Plans

The researchers plan to launch the new patches in the market in the fall of 2025, in both South Korea and the United States. Furthermore, this technology can be reformulated to provide other treatments beyond acne control.

Kim explains that their work highlights the potential of using microarray patches as a platform for various medical applications, ranging from treating skin disorders to obesity treatments and vaccine delivery.

Conclusion

Innovation in acne treatment is making significant strides with the development of new medical patches using microarray technology. These patches offer an effective and safe solution for acne treatment, with potential applications in broader medical treatments. This innovation represents an important step toward improving the quality of dermatological treatments and expanding their uses in the future.