Acne Care – Laser Therapy

The word laser is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. In other words it is a process whereby electromagnetic radiation in the form of a narrow beam of light is transmitted. Some lasers emit a broader beam of light. Each wave of light has a brightness, colour and can vibrate. They are completely safe and used in every major industry from computers to entertainment. There are many forms of handheld devices which emit a low powered light for the treatment of inflammatory acne. These handheld devices do not give off any heat and are not called lasers. They can be bought and used at home.

There are basically two types of laser; ablative, which literally means to remove, or take away and non ablative. The CO2 lasers fall into the category of ablative lasers which are the oldest and strongest having been around for twenty years or so making their first appearance in the 1990s. However they fell out of favour due to the possible association with the development of acne, scarring and pigment changes, usually short term lightening of the skin. Lasers of varying wavelengths and intensities have now been developed to recontour scar tissue, reduce the redness around a healed acne lesion, and promote the growth of collagen in the skin. Several treatments may be required but the treatment does not take long to undergo.

Carbon Dioxide laser resurfacing is a technique which is performed by a surgeon or dermatologist. The skin is first numbed to reduce any pain involved during the procedure. The practitioner removes surface skin layers in a controlled precise manner. The laser acts in a similar way to sandblasting where the molecular bonds of the cells are dissolved. Peeling away the skin with short pulses of light. The heat produced causes the oil glands to shrink thus helping to prevent breakouts of acne. Redness and swelling of the skin may be experienced afterwards. This will fade with time, although the skin may take several weeks to recover. When the skin grows back scars are greatly reduced. This procedure is good after an outbreak of acne and ice pick scarring. Topical creams are usually prescribed in conjunction with this treatment. The patient is usually requested to avoid the sun for several weeks afterwards.

The newer non ablative lasers are more gentle. They differ from ablative lasers in the method of delivery to the treatment areas. The erbium energy lasers are useful in treating areas of discolouration close to the surface of the skin and effectively heal acne scars. The laser focuses highly concentrated beams of light under the skin by making pyxilated patterns of microscopic wounds, which are surrounded by healthy tissue to preserve the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) thus eliminating damaged cells, killing bacteria and stimulating collagen growth. This ensures a faster healing time. The new collagen regeneration is stimulated for around 6 months and effectively lifts and supports the skins surface. Some temporary side effects from the treatment may be expected such as redness, swelling and tingling which fades.

The latest pulsed dye lasers are still being developed but are proving useful for active acne vulgaris and keloid scars.

There are many products which can help in the healing process after the treatment. The Dermatologist or surgeon will give advice on this.

 

Information written by Christine Burden - TalkAcne Web Site Manager