Acne treatments have gone high tech. It wasn't that long ago that a major breakthrough in breakout treatments hit the shelves. We're talking about the handy devices affectionately known as zit zappers. These high-tech acne treatment devices gained popularity as the end all, be all for people who needed fast results for fighting acne. While they weren't necessarily the answer for major pimple problems, they earned a reputation for being effective in dealing with those one-off blemishes that strike at the most inconvenient times. One of the first gadgets on the market was the Zeno Pro, which retails for about $159.00. Since then, other companies have released their own version of the contraption, including ThermaClear. A thermal-based blemish device, it works by using low level heat to kill acne bacteria, reduce the production of sebum and suppress the anti-inflammatory skin processes. These battery-operated gadgets rely on a flashing blue light with heat to attack the sore spots. The devices typically work on blemishes that are under the skin or on the surface. Here's how they operate.
Place the tip of the contraption on the pimple, press the button and hold on the area for the duration of the treatments which can last about three minutes. Treatment times vary from product to product and are usually done up to three times a day. Although it's no miracle worker, some studies show that the device is effective in treating some but not all acne. In other words, it's probably not going to work on blackheads, whiteheads and serious acne issues that requires treatment from a professional. As for mild blemishes, it may do the trick. Another thing to keep in mind is that the devices may speed up the healing process. If you're willing to fork out the hundred-plus dollars, just keep the "something is better than nothing" mantra in mind.