Laser acne therapy, also known as laser acne treatment, is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses high-intensity light energy to reduce or eliminate acne. This therapy has gained popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in treating stubborn acne that is resistant to traditional topical and oral acne medications. In this article, we will discuss the basics of laser acne therapy, its benefits, and what to expect during and after the treatment.

Laser acne therapy works by targeting the bacteria that cause acne and reducing the production of sebum, which is the oily substance that clogs pores and leads to acne breakouts. The light energy from the laser penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the skin's pigment, heating and destroying the bacteria responsible for causing acne. Additionally, the heat generated by the laser reduces the size of the sebaceous glands, which decreases sebum production and prevents clogged pores.

What are the benefits of laser acne therapy?

Laser acne therapy has several benefits over traditional acne treatments. Firstly, it is non-invasive and does not require any incisions or injections, which means there is no downtime after the treatment. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment.

Secondly, laser acne therapy is highly effective in treating stubborn acne that has not responded to traditional acne medications. It can also be used to treat acne scars and hyperpigmentation caused by acne.

Lastly, laser acne therapy is a safe and well-tolerated treatment with minimal side effects. Unlike oral acne medications, it does not cause dryness or irritation of the skin.

What to expect during laser acne therapy?

Before the treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleaned and a topical anesthetic cream may be applied to reduce discomfort. During the treatment, the patient will wear protective goggles to shield their eyes from the laser light. The laser is then directed at the affected areas of the skin, and the light energy is absorbed by the skin's pigment, heating and destroying the bacteria responsible for causing acne.

The duration of the treatment depends on the size of the area being treated and the severity of the acne. Typically, a single treatment session lasts between 30 minutes to an hour.

After the treatment, the skin may appear red and slightly swollen. This is a normal reaction and usually subsides within a few hours. Patients are advised to avoid exposure to the sun and to use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect their skin from UV radiation.

How many laser acne therapy sessions are needed?

The number of laser acne therapy sessions needed depends on the severity of the acne and the patient's skin type. Typically, patients require between three to six treatment sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. However, some patients may require more or fewer sessions depending on their individual needs.