 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Laser Acne Treatments
Acne is one of the most common forms of skin disorders and affects a wide percentage of the population at some point in their lives, affecting both males and females. This can be both distressing and painful and can result in serious skin damage, such as scarring, if not treated quickly and correctly. The sebaceous oil glands are larger and more numerous on the mid section of the face, back and the chest area with inflammation and infection occurring in these areas, along with pore blockages, leading to the acne pustules and painful pimples. Effective acne treatments can assist the skin to function normally, significantly reducing the appearance and occurrence of acne and reducing the likelihood of permanent scarring.
Laser treatments have proven highly successful in the treatment of acne with the laser light effectively destroying the bacteria (Proprionibacterium acne) that can lead to the formation of pimples and pustules on the skin below the surface. Unlike benzoyl peroxide, Tazerac, and other topical creams, the laser can also shrink the oil producing sebaceous glands. By increasing the production of collagen below the surface of the skin, the laser also aids the healing process, causing any existing acne to disappear without the risk of scarring. As a bonus, the laser may and may erase or diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
An effective laser treatment program can address the infection and inflammation deep along the hair shaft, offering an effective cure for this sometimes-debilitating condition. The procedure is relatively painless with minimal side effects compared to other solutions such as accutane and long-term antibiotics that can cause adverse reactions in many patients. Unlike these oral medications, the laser does not affect other parts of the body or the surrounding tissue, making it safe for pregnant or nursing women.
Acne Treatment Procedure
The laser acne treatment does not require any general anesthetic, hospital stay or recovery time, with many doctors and dermatologists performing the treatment in their day clinics. The procedure involves laser pulses applied over the acne area to be treated, which last for a millisecond and produce a short flash of pulsed light. Like any other laser treatment, wearing of protective goggles for both the patient and laser technician is mandatory, as exposure to the laser light can cause significant damage to the naked eye. Some patients may experience a tingle or warm glow in the treated area during the procedure. Others report a mildly uncomfortable pinprick sensation only when the laser pulses. A whole face area can be treated within a 30 minute to 1-hour session.
As the laser light penetrates into the skin during the procedure it will activate natural chemical pigments that contribute to the related redness of the acne. As they are stimulated, the chemicals destroy the bacteria present in the pulse area and permanently alter the pH balance within the cells, creating a less inviting environment for the bacteria to multiply. While laser treatment is not a complete cure for inflammatory acne, it can cause a rapid reduction in the signs of active acne and is a long lasting solution for most patients. Most patients will require four to six weekly treatments, with maintenance treatments every four to six months, depending on the natural progression of the acne condition.
Areas for Acne Treatment
Areas for laser treatment include the face, chest and back, which can all be affected by acne. Back and chest acne are more common in males, with the condition developing like a form of folliculitis or follicle infection. Prior to the procedure being performed, Dr Rodriguez will assess the area of infection carefully and will be give guidance as to the expected outcome of the treatment and the amount of area that can be treated. Areas where cystic acne is present cannot be treated, and this condition usually requires aggressive conventional treatment with an acne medication first.
Acne Treatment Recovery
Most patients do not suffer from any adverse reaction following acne treatment with laser. Any redness or inflammation subsides by the next day. Applying ice compresses for the first 24 hours speeds up recovery time and alleviates any discomfort. The ice should be applied inside of a Ziploc type plastic bag to avoid ice burning to the area and can be used periodically throughout the day for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Sun exposure and heavy make up should be avoided until the recovery process is complete, which is generally 4 to 5 days after treatment. Our office can provide you with light mineral makeup. Sun block of SPF 30+ should be applied at least 30 minutes before going outside.
Acne Treatment Risks
Acne may temporarily worsen following the laser treatment due to the skin stimulation, but this settles down quickly in the majority of patients. A short course of antibiotics may be prescribed. Patients must ensure that they inform the doctor of any oral or topical drugs that are being used previous to the treatment, as some acne medication can cause an adverse reaction if combined with a treatment such as the laser procedure. The laser will not scar or damage the skin, but darker skinned patients may notice a slight change in pigmentation that is not permanent.
Benefits of Laser Acne Treatment
Laser treatment is effective in treating the most aggressive of inflammatory facial acne lesions with few risks, limited down time and quick results. Moderate to severe acne vulgaris research subjects have reported reduction in acne lesions of 70 to 75% during treatment, with these results persisting following a 12-month examination. Minimal side effects such as short-term redness have been noted that are mild and clear quickly. Laser treatment offers long-term acne sufferers an attractive alternative to strong medications, topical products and previous ineffective acne solutions. Additional benefits include collagen simulation, color correction, and wrinkle reduction that is not possible with other treatments. Patients should be advised that the treatment is not an immediate resolution. On average, a 4-6 week period is required to see the full benefits of a course of treatment.
| Click Here to Request More |
Sign Up for our FREE Newsletter and Receive |
||
| Click Here to Purchase and Receive |
|