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Laser Acne Treatment
Acne results from infection by the bacteria P.Acnes (Propionibacterium Acnes) and Acne Vulgaris. Every skin pore on our body from which hair grows, has a Sebaceous Gland which produces oil (Sebum) in order to lubricate our skin. When the pore becomes plugged with dirt, oil (Sebum), or dead skin, the bacteria begin to proliferate and cause an infection from within the skin.
The bacterial infection causes inflamation which is what we see as acne. P.Acnes bacteria contain porphyrins, which can be excited by Blue (400-420 nm ) light. When the porphyrins are excited by the intense blue light, they become converted to a chemical which is deadly to the P.Acnes bacteria. This leads to the death of the bacteria.
Stimulation with intense Red (630-650nm) light leads to tissue repair and regeneration. Stimulation with the red light causes the release of cytokines in the skin which stimulate fibroblast proliferation and the production of growth factors, thus influencing the inflammatory process and leading to disappearance of the acne.
How often do I need to do the treatments?
It is recommended that you have a total of 8 treatments done twice a week (total of 4 weeks). Since acne is an ongoing condition, you may do maintenance treatments as needed. In general, most people may need a maintenance treatment once every 1-2 weeks after the course of 8 treatments.
What does the treatment feel like?
The treatments are quite comfortable and totally pain free. You may feel a slight warmth from the heat generated by the light sources. A fan is provided when needed to cool the skin and make the treatment more comfortable.
What can I expect after the treatment?
Right after the treatment you may feel a slight warmth over the treated areas. This will resolve in a few minutes as you are no longer exposed to the heat of the light sources. Your skin may look slightly flushed for a short period of time. There is absolutely no downtime and you can resume your daily activities as usual. Most people see a significant reduction in their acne by the 2nd week of their treatment course. You will also see improvement in your skin texture as it becomes smoother and even toned, as well as a reduction in the size of the skin pores.
Can I do anything to improve the results?
It has been shown that the use of Levulan (Aminolevulinic Acid / ALA) can enhance the results of photodynamic therapy. Levulan is a solution which must be applied to the skin for 15-30 minutes before the treatment. Levulan can make your skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and therefore must only be used under the care and prescription of a physician. Consult your physician for more details. Severe forms of acne may also require a short-term course of oral antibiotics. Consult your physician for more details
It is also recommended that you use an acne formulation in conjuction with Laser Light Therapy. It is important to keep your skin clean at all times in order to minimize future acne breakouts. And if you use makeup, you should only use oil free makeup as to not clog your skin pores. Although every person responds differently to different acne formulations, we strongly recommend the MD-Forte cleanser and lotions.
Are there any side effects?
Laser Light Therapy has practically no side effects or downtime. If you are taking certain medications which make the skin sensitive to light. One of the main medications causing photosesitivity is Accutane. You should not receive this treatment if you are taking Accutane. Please consult with our physicians about any other medications which you are currently taking before using this device.
Is Laser Light Therapy safe for all skin types?
Yes. Laser Light Therapy can be safely used on all skin types and skin colors.
Can any part of the body be treated?
Yes. Laser Light Therapy can be used on any part of the body which is affected by acne. Although the most common area is the face, treatment can also be used on the back, chest, arms, legs, and buttocks.
