Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a system of treating a sebaceous gland in human skin with light energy to reduce acne symptoms. The system includes: a composition comprising a metallic nanoparticle dispersed within a carrier; means to vibrate at least a portion of the skin surface to which the composition is applied; means to selectively remove at least some of the composition from the skin surface after application of the means to vibrate, while leaving the metallic nanoparticles in proximity to or within the sebaceous gland; and means to optically irradiate the skin to which the composition was applied with light energy after removal of at least some of the composition from the skin surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions comprising energy (e.g., light) absorbing submicron particles (e.g., nanoparticles comprising a silica core and a gold shell) and methods for delivering such particles via topical application. This delivery is facilitated by application of mechanical agitation (e.g. massage), acoustic vibration in the range of 10 Hz-20 kHz, ultrasound, alternating suction and pressure, and microjets.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a system of treating a sebaceous gland in human skin with light energy to reduce acne symptoms. The system includes: a composition comprising a metallic nanoparticle dispersed within a carrier; means to vibrate at least a portion of the skin surface to which the composition is applied; means to selectively remove at least some of the composition from the skin surface after application of the means to vibrate, while leaving the metallic nanoparticles in proximity to or within the sebaceous gland; and means to optically irradiate the skin to which the composition was applied with light energy after removal of at least some of the composition from the skin surface.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for delivering substances, e.g., therapeutic substances, into openings on or near a skin surface, such as hair follicles, pores and/or into sebaceous glands. This can be achieved by using an apparatus to direct a substance into the openings under pressure via one or more nozzles or slits. A portion of the sebum present in the hair follicle is optionally heated and/or removed, e.g. using low-pressure conduit located on the lower surface of the apparatus, before introducing the therapeutic substance.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a method for alleviating acne including: applying a therapeutic substance to an area of skin having follicles, said therapeutic substance comprising a plurality of metal nanoparticles within a carrier; using a device to impart mechanical energy to deliver some of said therapeutic substance into a plurality of follicles; removing the composition remaining on the skin surface while leaving the therapeutic substance in said follicles; and irradiating the skin to which the composition was applied with light energy effective to treat acne.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a method for alleviating acne including: applying a therapeutic substance to an area of skin having follicles, said therapeutic substance comprising a plurality of metal nanoparticles within a carrier; using a device to impart mechanical energy to deliver some of said therapeutic substance into a plurality of follicles; removing the composition remaining on the skin surface while leaving the therapeutic substance in said follicles; and irradiating the skin to which the composition was applied with light energy effective to treat acne.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions comprising energy (e.g., light) absorbing submicron particles (e.g., nanoparticles comprising a silica core and a gold shell) and methods for delivering such particles via topical application. This delivery is facilitated by application of mechanical agitation (e.g. massage), acoustic vibration in the range of 10 Hz-20 kHz, ultrasound, alternating suction and pressure, and microjets.