Cold plasma treatment in Dubai — acne, skin rejuvenation and healing: what the evidence says

Key facts

• Cold plasma is ionised gas applied near body temperature
• Evidence is promising but still developing
• Different from PRP despite the similar name
• Established acne and rejuvenation treatments come first
• A dermatologist diagnosis guides the choice

What cold plasma is

Plasma, in physics, is the fourth state of matter: a gas that has been energised so that it contains charged particles, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, ultraviolet light and a mild electric field. Cold atmospheric plasma is produced at temperatures close to body temperature, so it can be applied to the skin without burning it. Devices deliver it through a handpiece held over or lightly across the skin. In laboratory and early clinical studies, cold plasma has shown antibacterial effects, influences on inflammation and possible stimulation of skin repair. It is a different technology from PRP, which is platelet-rich plasma prepared from blood, despite the similar name.

What the evidence shows so far

Research on cold plasma in dermatology is growing, particularly for chronic wounds, some skin infections and acne. Small studies suggest it may reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation and support healing. Studies on rejuvenation, pigmentation and scars are fewer, often small and use different devices and settings, which makes results hard to compare. That means cold plasma should be viewed as a promising but still emerging option rather than a replacement for established treatment. Dr. Abdullah Anis explains the current evidence honestly and will tell you if a treatment with stronger evidence is more likely to help your specific concern.

Cold plasma for acne

For acne, cold plasma is mainly being studied as an add-on to reduce bacteria and calm inflamed spots. Acne, however, has several drivers: oil production, blocked pores, bacteria, inflammation and often hormones. Proven treatments target these causes, including topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, antibiotics in short courses, hormonal treatment for suitable women and isotretinoin for severe or scarring acne. Chemical peels can help with blocked pores and marks. At Manhal, Dr. Abdullah Anis builds an acne plan around these established options and discusses whether any additional technology is worthwhile. Severe, painful or scarring acne should be treated medically early.

Rejuvenation and healing alternatives

If your goal is brighter skin, finer texture or softer lines, several treatments with a longer track record are available at Manhal. PRP facials and PRP with microneedling use your own platelets to support skin repair. CO2 laser resurfacing can improve texture, fine lines and some scars, with downtime depending on settings. Medical-grade chemical peels improve tone and texture. A deep-cleansing hydra-dermabrasion facial offers a gentle refresh without downtime. Botox and fillers address expression lines and volume loss. Dr. Abdullah Anis matches the option to your skin type, goals and the downtime you can accept, and can tell you whether cold plasma is currently available at the clinic.

Safety and questions to ask

Cold plasma is generally reported to be well tolerated, with mild tingling, warmth, redness or dryness being the most common effects. As with any device, safety depends on proper training, appropriate settings and patient selection. People with pacemakers or implanted electronic devices, during pregnancy, or with active skin cancer in the area should ask specifically about suitability. Before any treatment, ask who performs it and whether they are DHA-licensed, what the device is approved for, how many sessions are recommended and on what evidence, and what alternatives exist. If you have a skin condition that is not improving, a dermatologist diagnosis should come before choosing any device.

PRP uses growth factors concentrated from a small sample of your own blood to support skin repair, texture and glow.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.