Carbon footprint assessment of Energy-Based devices in clinical and aesthetic dermatology.

Health care significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions. Dermatology, particularly procedures involving energy-intensive devices such as lasers and light-based therapies, plays a notable role. To compare the per-session carbon footprint of commonly used aesthetic and clinical dermatologic devices and suggest strategies for sustainability. A descriptive life cycle assessment was conducted on 12 devices grouped as lasers, light-based tools, body-contouring systems, and alternative modalities. Device power data were sourced from manufacturers and literature; average session durations from clinical protocols. Energy use per session was calculated by multiplying power by session length and converted into CO₂ equivalents using Turkey's national grid intensity (0.45 kg CO₂e/kWh). High-energy lasers (IPL, Nd: YAG, Alexandrite, CO₂) produced 0.30-0.70 kg CO₂e per session. LED therapy, microdermabrasion, and sonophoresis emitted < 0.01 kg CO₂e. Radiofrequency microneedling and EMS ranged between 0.10 and 0.70 kg CO₂e. Diode lasers offered up to 50% reduction due to higher energy efficiency. Dermatologic devices vary widely in carbon output. Choosing low-emission tools, optimizing session times, and utilizing teledermatology can significantly reduce environmental impact. Integrating sustainability metrics into device selection may support greener dermatologic practices.