Abby Borbon-Roaquin is the manager and clinician at Ulan Medical Spa in San Diego, California. Roaquin has been a registered nurse for over 14 years, and is experienced in providing medical aesthetic procedures. Here, she explains acne light therapy, or LED PhotoTherapy.
About 40 million people in the United States ages 12 to 24 have acne problems, and one in four adults experience acne until about age 44. By the age of 24, more than 85% of adolescents and young adults will have had acne at one time or another. While it is not a serious health condition, the physical effects of acne scarring can be permanent, and emotionally, acne can cause low self-esteem and depression. The latest technology uses light to treat acne, which has proven much more effective than traditional treatments.
Most other treatments target the causes of acne — clogged pores, excess oil production, and bacterial buildup. For over 30 years, antibiotics have been used to treat acne-causing bacteria, which has, as a result, built up resistance, rendering the treatment less useful. Topical prescription medications irritate the skin, which makes it appear that the condition is getting worse, causing the individual to discontinue treatment. Some oral medications may not even be an option, as they can harm the fetus in a pregnant woman.
Anti-Acne Light Emitting Diodes (LED) Therapy
What is it? No longer just used as indicator lights in electronic devices, LEDs are now used to treat acne. They are not lasers. There is no pain, no downtime, and no side effects.
Who can benefit from it? Acne light therapy benefits anyone with mild to moderate inflammatory acne-prone skin. Consult your skincare professional for an evaluation.
How does it work? Studies have shown that when acne-causing bacteria are exposed to blue light in a specific wavelength, singlet oxygen is produced, which neutralizes the inflammation-causing bacteria. When combined with red light in a specific wavelength, which has anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces the redness, pain, and swelling associated with acne, as well as reduces pore size and decreases oil production.
What happens during treatment? Before the treatment, you will be instructed to cleanse your face to remove any sunblock or makeup. You will be provided with safety eyewear and the light will be positioned 1 to 2 inches from your face. Each light therapy session will take about 20 minutes. You will experience a feeling of relaxation and well-being during and after the treatment. After your session, you can go right back to your normal routine, without redness, pain, or irritation.
How many treatments will I need? Acne light therapy can be done eight times (twice a week for four weeks) or 12 times (twice a week for six weeks), depending on the severity of the condition. Treatments alternate between blue and red light. Depending on the severity of your blemishes, your skincare professional may also suggest using a face wash or gel containing salicylic acid to help clear pores. Your skincare professional can also adjust the number of treatments if needed.
What results can I expect from the treatment? After eight alternating treatments, optimum results will be visible 4 to 8 weeks following the last treatment. The light stimulates natural processes that go on even after the treatment has stopped. Studies have shown that on average, 81% of blemishes are cleared after 12 weeks.
How long do the effects last? Most clients’ blemishes are completely cleared after about six months. In some cases, follow-up treatments (typically two to four monthly) may be necessary.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
