More than 80 percent of teenagers are struggling with acne. Adults are not spared too from this
skin problem. Acne may not threaten your life but it can devastate your self-esteem.
By having a clear skin, your problem should be solved. However, most of us are not getting
results from antibiotics or topical creams. Fortunately, the introduction of blue light for acne treatment may be
the solution to these blemishes.
What Is Blue Light Therapy
Blue light therapy has alternative names such as photodynamic therapy or PDT. The Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) has approved the use of blue light therapy for mild to moderate acne treatment. It uses a
special bulb to release a certain spectrum light. This high energy blue light is then beamed on the acne.
It is said that the regular sessions of this light therapy can prevent the overproduction of
sebum. For some patients, it reduces the size of the pores.
How Does Blue Light Therapy Work
One of the causes of acne is the presence of p.acnes bacteria. These bacteria thrive in clogged
pores, releasing Porphyrins. When the affected area absorbs the blue light, the Porphyrins will produce free
radicals which destroy the bacteria.
What To Expect During The Treatment
Before the light therapy begins, the doctor will apply a layer of chemical known as Levulan
Kerastick on the your skin. This chemical is a photosensitizer which will make your skin more sensitive to
light.
You will be in either a sitting or lying down position. The beam will be placed on the acne for
up to 30 minutes.
The repeated treatments are necessary depending on how severe is your acne. Usually you are
allowed to attend one or more sessions in a week. The whole treatment should not last more than eight
weeks.
You may use a topical cream after the blue light therapy. This step will help to minimize the
formation of lesions, pustules, and papules.
After The Blue Light LaserTreatment
You may feel your skin will be extra tender after the session. It is normal. Your skin should be
back to normal after a few days.
While waiting for the skin to heal, you should not use hot water for shower. You are advised to
use mild cleansers. Don't exfoliate or scrub the treated skin.
Benefits of Blue Light Therapy
Blue light therapy for acne treatment is non-invasive. This is great if you are looking for a remedy
that is friendly to the skin. Furthermore, it does not damage the tissues that surround the treated
area.
Unlike benzoyl peroxide, your skin will not be dry. Thus, you don't have to deal with any skin
irritation.
There is no down time. This means you can go home after the session is over. And continue with your
regular activities.
It works on most skin types.
The blue light therapy is safe without any fear of exposure to ultra-violet rays. The side effects are
very minimal as your skin will not suffer any damages that are evident in chemical peels or
dermabrasion.
The Disadvantages Of Blue Light For Acne Treatments
The blue light therapy is relatively new. It requires more studies to validate its effectiveness in
treating acne and ensure its long-term safety.
Certain medical professionals feel that the aging process will be accelerated with the use of this
light therapy. This may increase the risk of skin cancer.
Do It Yourself Blue Light Therapy
Instead of having the treatment done at the office, you can get a light therapy device for home
use. The cost is lower when compared to the total money paid for the several sessions at the office. The
trade-offs are the lack of supervision by the professionals and the lower strength of the home device.
Who Is It For
Blue light therapy is ideal for you if
you are expecting.
your skin is sensitive.
your skin fails to respond to any treatment.
Conclusion
You will find the whole process of blue light therapy for acne treatments is painless and fast.
No doubt, it is still new but it is a great opportunity to explore this path unless you are happy with the existing
treatment.
