Laser Treatment For Acne

If you have tried over the counter and oral medication aimed at removing acne and acne scars, and the results have failed; you may want to look at the option of laser treatment for acne.

What is laser treatment for acne?

Laser, an acronym for ‘light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation’, is emerging as a leading treatment option for acne and acne scar removal. Laser beams are applied by a skilled surgeon or doctor to the affected area to help eliminate both acne and the resulting acne scars.

Laser surgery involves the use of laser beams to penetrate into the very core of the acne in order to clear the clogged pore. Its purpose is to destroy the Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes), the bacterium that causes acne inflammation, and the specific glands secreting excess sebum in the pores. Often, laser surgery for acne removal may require several sessions, as it may need several visits to deal with all the glands and affected areas.

There are two types of laser treatment: ablative and non-ablative.

Ablative laser treatment for acne

Ablative laser resurfacing removes the top layers of skin to make the scarred area smooth and even. Generally, CO2 or Er:YAG lasers are used for this purpose. The heat produced in the process also helps to tighten the inner layers of the skin by stimulating collagen production. It is regarded as an ablative method as it removes the outer layers of the skin whilst at the same time, burns away scar tissue.

Non-Ablative laser treatment for acne

The non-ablative laser treatment is a milder more gentle approach. The process does not remove the epidermis or outer layer of the skin unlike the ablative laser treatment. This method stimulates change within the dermis by heating the collagen with the laser beams. The skin becomes tighter and the scars less obvious. However, application of topical anesthetic cream is required before starting the procedure.

On both occasions the skin will be cleansed and a lotion applied to help alleviate the pain.

Risks

The most common risks associated with laser treatment for acne and acne scar removal are burning, dryness and blotchy appearance of skin due to inconsistent application of laser beams. The cost of laser surgery for acne scar removal can also be quite expensive.

Take care of your insides

Laser treatment for acne and all the lotions and potions will only do half the work if you are not eating right and not making sure you have all the vitamins and minerals to combat acne and acne blemishes. It is a habit of a life time, so take action now!

Kick start acne scar healing

Laser treatment for acne scars can also be considered as a first step in starting your skin healing process. Depending on the severity of your scarring and the advise of your dermatologist, a few sessions of laser surgery could kick start your healing process. It may be expensive but in the long run, laser treatment for acne may be a good starting point.