Top 5 Articles of the Week: April 13-18

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1. Patients with DIMIDs and Pandemic Risks

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (DIMIDs), including atopic dermatitis (AD), psoriasis, and vitiligo. The fear of morbidity, mortality, and vaccine hesitancy contributed to disruptions in their daily lives. Patients with immunodeficiency diseases, older individuals, males, and those of non-White ethnicity were at an increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. Interestingly, vaccination, a healthy diet, and atopic conditions were considered protective factors against COVID-19. A recent prospective observational, multicenter, multidisciplinary cohort substudy explored the impact of COVID-19 disease and vaccination on DIMIDs, specifically AD, psoriasis, and vitiligo.

2. JAAD Study Validates Avava’s Precision Laser Innovation

A recent peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) has spotlighted Avava’s Focal Point Technology as a significant innovation in energy-based skin treatment. The technology—designed to deliver targeted energy to specific skin depths—may offer safer, more effective treatment options for a broad range of patients, including those with darker skin tones who have traditionally faced greater risk from conventional laser therapies.

3. Topical Antioxidants Combined with Phototherapy Effective for Vitiligo Management

A network meta-analysis helped to determine which phototherapy combination method is best for patients with vitiligo. It was found that antioxidants showed superior efficacy with corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and fractional CO₂ laser also showing successful repigmentation rates. This is the first time a network meta-analysis has been used to identify the most effective topical therapy for vitiligo when combined with phototherapy.

4. The Unprecedented Phase 1 Results of ET-02 for the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia

Eirion Therapeutics has reported promising first-in-human trial results for ET-02, a topical treatment for androgenic alopecia. The drug showed exceptional safety with no local or systemic adverse effects and delivered unprecedented hair regrowth in just 5 weeks—6 times more than placebo and even outperforming minoxidil’s four-month results. Unlike current treatments that stimulate the hair follicle or stem cell, ET-02 targets a correction in defective stem cell biology to restore normal hair growth. With this novel mechanism, ET-02 could reshape the hair loss treatment landscape and potentially play a role in future prevention strategies.

5. V-FC Handpiece Combines RF and Vacuum for Facial Contouring

A novel V-FC handpiece, which uses radiofrequency (RF) and vacuum technology, was found to be effective and safe for nonsurgical facial contouring. RF-based devices are known for reducing fat, producing collagen, stimulating fibroblasts, and increasing blood circulation. The V-FC handpiece combines bipolar channeling optimized radiofrequency energy (CORE) technology with vacuum suction and targets different tissue depths at varying frequencies, creating a synergetic effect on the tissue.