Acne is a skin condition which has plugged pores- blackheads and whiteheads-, inflamed pimples- pustules-, and deeper lumps- nodules. Acne occurs on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms. Although most teenagers get some form of acne, adults can develop acne. Acne can be disfiguring and upsetting to the patient. Untreated acne can leave permanent scars. To avoid acne scarring, treating acne is important.
Until recently, a combination of topical and oral medications has been used with varying degrees of success to combat acne. Now, dermatologists are using non-ablative laser technology to successfully treat active acne and the scarring that often results as well.
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One of the main benefits of non-ablative lasers is that they can clear acne without producing a notable injury to the outer layer of the skin. Non-ablative therapy works by targeting the overactive sebaceous glands that are responsible for acne. The laser emits a wavelength of light that is strongly absorbed by water within the skin. This generates heat in and around the sebaceous glands. By creating a mild thermal injury just below the skin's surface, a non-ablative laser alters the structure and function of the sebaceous gland, leading to prolonged acne clearance.
Non-ablative treatments typically take between five and 20 minutes, during which time the patient experiences a slight snapping or stinging sensation that is alleviated with a pre-treatment topical anesthetic and post-treatment ice application. A series of three to five treatments are delivered at monthly intervals in order to achieve the desired clearance.
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The Candela Smoothbeam is a perfect example of acne treating laser technology at its best. As an effective alternative to expensive medications and messy creams, the Smoothbeam laser targets the root cause of acne by altering the sebaceous gland in the upper dermis. The sebaceous gland is that which produces sebum, the oily substance that clings to hair follicles, clogging pores, resulting in acne pustules.
Marked reduction in acne lesions often occurs within a couple of treatment sessions, and a series of treatments should result in acne clearance for more than six months. Side effects are limited to mild redness and swelling, which will not interfere with a person's daily activities. Typically, you may resume normal activities and return to work immediately after your laser treatment.
No anesthesia is required, patients experience minimal discomfort and this procedure is usually performed in the comfort of your doctor's office. Typically, you may resume normal activities and return to work immediately after your laser treatment. Should you be interested in this or should you have any other concerns or conditions please contact us and we will direct you to a doctor near you.