Laser Acne Treatments
Laser Acne Treatments
How does acne correction by laser treatment work?
There are several laser treatments for acne, but most work in one of two ways. One common procedure uses heat to shrink the oil glands in the skin so it produces less oil. This does not affect the outer layers of the skin. The other method uses lasers to create oxygen inside the pore that destroys the acne-causing bacteria.
Is laser treatment safe on acne?
Laser acne treatments are considered very safe because they control breakouts without damaging the outer layers of the skin. Individuals who have been using photosensitive drugs to control their acne may have to wait up to six months before receiving laser acne treatment to avoid any negative side effects or reactions to the treatment.
Who is a good candidate for acne laser treatment?
Anyone who has acne is a good candidate for acne laser treatment, though individuals with dark or sensitive skin may not see successful results due to their skin type. Anyone interested in this treatment should consult their doctor or dermatologist to see if it is the right treatment for them.
What is the best laser technology for laser acne treatments?
The best laser technology for laser acne treatments can be defined by 2 different approaches toward treating the acne. First, the redness or vascular component to the acne and this can be treated either with a long pulse nd:yag laser wavelength component in the Dual Accento, the Lucid Q PTP has an optional attachment to produce 585 nm wavelength which will effectively treat post acne redness, inflammatory acne, facial flushing, and vascular melasma, and the MedPulse IPL intense pulse light machine can also effectively treat acne. Secondly, toning of the skin and improving the overall health of the location of the acne will benefit from a series of genesis toning treatments or carbon peeling treatments.
How many treatments will I need?
Laser acne treatments are generally long lasting, but most patients require a series of treatments to see results. Some patients need to receive follow up treatments once or twice a year, but this depends on individual skin types and the severity of the acne.
How long will the treatment take?
Session time will depend on the laser used and the office the treatment is performed in, but most laser acne treatments take 30 minutes to an hour per session. Most patients require several sessions before they see the results they desire.
What to expect after treatment?
Depending on the laser used and skin sensitivity, an individual may have no visible reaction immediately after treatment. Those with sensitive skin may see a mild redness that usually subsides within a few hours. Some treatments may cause the skin to peel for a couple of days after treatment.
Contraindications to treatment?
Patients with infections, progressive skin diseases, cancer or the possibility of cancer, inflammation of the area of treatment, recent use of photosensitive drugs, recent or current steroid use, or tendencies to scarring or hyperpigmentation may not be able to receive treatment. Individuals with poorly controlled diabetes, immunosuppression, mental disorders, epilepsy, lupus, recent sun exposure, or autoimmune disorders may also be unfit for treatment.
How can I prepare for treatment?
Individuals can prepare for treatment by avoiding sun exposure for 1-2 months leading up to the procedure. It is also recommended to keep a solid face cleansing routine and avoid anything that would increase skin sensitivity.
How permanent is the treatment?
Laser acne treatments are generally long lasting, though some patients need to receive follow up treatments once or twice a year. This will depend on individual skin types and the severity of the acne.
Advantages of laser vascular treatments?
Laser vascular treatments can be used to treat dilated blood vessels in the skin. This can include rosacea, birthmarks, warts, scars, bruises, and sun damage. Laser vascular treatments are not painful enough to require anesthesia, and are very similar to laser acne treatments.
