Blue Light Lasers
Acne that has resistant to the treatment of more conventional methods now has another weapon to destroy the bacteria responsible for causing it. In August 2002 the FDA approved the use of high intensity blue light to treat mild to moderate acne. This safe non invasive treatment uses blue light to target and kill the acne causing bacteria that can form in the sebaceous glands. The treatment can be used alone or in combination with topical solutions such as Levulan.
Blue Light Therapy for acne is reportedly quick and painless. Treatments can be done in a sitting or lying position while the light source is placed close to the face for up to 30 minutes. There is no downtime following the weekly treatments. Depending on the severity of the acne, many treatments, spread out over several weeks, may be needed to achieve the best results. Once completed, maintenance treatments are recommenced to keep results.
To increase the effects of the blue light laser Levulan, the topical photodymanic solution, can be applied to the skin for up to one hour prior to exposure to the light. When the topical solution is used the results are enhanced and the treatment time under the light is lessened considerably to about ten minutes. Significant improvement has been reported in many patients after as little as two to four weekly treatments. Side effects of blue light therapy can include swelling, redness, stinging, and a burning sensation. Types of blue light therapy available are Clearlight™, Omnilux™ and BLU-U®.
The average cost of blue light acne therapy can range from $50- $150 per session. Light therapy for the treatment of acne is generally considered cosmetic and most likely will not covered by insurance. |
