Michael Gold, MD: Advances in Acne Treatment and Energy-Based Devices

Michael Gold, MD, a dermatologist practicing at Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, Tennessee, recently spoke with Dermatology Times to discuss his presentation at the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting. In his session, titled "Acne Boot Camp," Gold explored the growing role of energy-based devices in the treatment of acne.

Drawing from years of experience and research, Gold highlighted how integrating medical devices can offer faster and more effective results for patients with acne.

Combining Medical Devices with Traditional Therapies

Gold’s session at the AAD Annual Meeting centered on the use of energy-based medical devices as an adjunct to traditional acne treatments. While he emphasized that standard medications are effective and proven, he believes that technology can enhance results.

"We all know that we have great medical treatments for acne; they're tried and true," Gold said. "Sometimes they take a long time to work, but they do work, but I have been speaking and teaching and discussing using medical devices, energy-based devices, for a long time because I think they add a lot of value."

Gold highlighted that combining medications with these devices can often yield quicker results for patients, leading to faster improvement and enhanced patient satisfaction.

"I can get most of my patients better what I think is faster," he said. "I give them the opportunity to add technology into what we do as we live in a technology world."

Key Devices in Acne Treatment: What’s New and Effective?

Gold’s session covered a wide range of devices currently available for treating acne. He began by addressing the traditional energy-based therapies, including blue and red lights, intense pulse lights, and vascular lasers. These treatments work by targeting the bacteria associated with acne, as well as reducing inflammation.

One of the standout technologies he discussed was the 1064 nanometer laser, which has revolutionized acne treatment in many practices.

He also emphasized the newer devices that focus on treating sebaceous glands, which play a key role in acne formation. With wavelengths at 1,726 nanometers, these devices directly target the source of acne, making them a valuable addition to treatment regimens.

Speeding Up Results for Patients With Acne

As a dermatologist who personally struggled with acne, Gold has a unique empathy for his patients. His approach is patient-centered, with a focus on quick, effective results.

This perspective drives his clinical decisions, and he aims to give patients the best possible outcomes as quickly as possible. To that end, Gold combines devices and medications in his practice to create customized treatment plans that are both effective and efficient.

"In the real world, I will use combinations of medicines and devices," he explained.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Device Use

While Gold’s clinical practice incorporates a combination of devices and medications, his session at the AAD focused on the clinical trials and research that demonstrate the effectiveness of energy-based devices as standalone treatments. These studies have proven that devices can achieve significant results, especially when used in conjunction with other acne therapies.