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AviClear Reaches 100,000 Treatments as Demand for Adult Acne Solutions Grows

Nicole McBride
The Aesthetics Magazine Editor
  • June 23, 2026
  • 3 minutes read

As Acne Awareness Month shines a spotlight on one of the world’s most common skin conditions, experts are highlighting a growing concern among practitioners and patients alike – the rise of adult acne.

Once considered a condition confined largely to adolescence, acne is increasingly affecting adults well into their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond. According to international dermatology studies, up to 25% of women and 12% of men experience adult acne, while around 85% of sufferers report persistent or recurring symptoms after their teenage years.

Hormonal fluctuations, stress, inflammation, genetics, lifestyle factors and compromised skin barriers are all thought to be contributing to the increasing prevalence of adult acne, leaving many patients searching for effective long-term solutions.

Now, laser treatment AviClear has surpassed 100,000 treatments globally, marking a significant milestone for the FDA-cleared device and signalling growing demand for alternative acne therapies that move beyond traditional medications.

Available through specialist dermatology and aesthetic clinics, AviClear is the first and only FDA-cleared energy-based device designed to treat mild, moderate and severe inflammatory acne by selectively targeting the sebaceous glands. Using a 1726nm wavelength laser, the technology works to reduce excess sebum production, one of the primary drivers of acne development.

Unlike conventional treatment pathways, which often rely on topical products, antibiotics or prescription medications such as isotretinoin, AviClear is designed to address acne at its source without the systemic side effects commonly associated with long-term medication use.

The treatment protocol consists of three 30-minute sessions performed approximately one month apart, with minimal downtime and no requirement to pause normal daily activities.

Clinical data has demonstrated promising long-term results. Studies found that 87% of patients experienced visible improvements in acne six months after completing treatment, increasing to 92% at the 12-month mark. Patients also reported high tolerability, with no serious adverse side effects observed during clinical trials.

Beyond the physical symptoms, practitioners are increasingly recognising the emotional burden that persistent acne can place on patients. Adult acne can significantly impact self-confidence, social interactions and overall wellbeing, particularly among those who feel isolated by a condition often incorrectly associated solely with teenagers.

Dr Brian Higgins of Galway Skin Clinic believes advancements such as AviClear are helping to broaden treatment options for patients who may not be suitable candidates for traditional therapies.

“I have been treating patients with acne for over a decade and, until recently, there have been very limited options for those with severe or difficult-to-treat acne,” he said. “While existing treatments can be highly effective, they are not always suitable or well tolerated by every patient.

“With AviClear, I now have an alternative – a treatment that is effective, safe and well tolerated. For me, acne treatment is not just about clearing the skin; it is about reducing the significant emotional and mental health burden that acne can carry.”

As awareness of adult acne continues to grow, the industry is seeing increasing demand for treatment options that provide lasting results while supporting patient wellbeing.

For practitioners, the milestone reflects a broader shift towards evidence-based technologies that offer patients effective alternatives to traditional treatment pathways and address not only the visible signs of acne, but also its wider impact on quality of life.

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