Laser Acne Treatment

In addition to all the creams and potions used to fight acne, laser acne treatment has joined the arsenal. Many people long affected by acne have been pleased with the results achieved through laser therapy. Lasers can diminish the appearance of blemishes and prevent new blemishes from forming. This type of therapy for acne is relatively new, but is gaining in popularity. Laser acne treatment is an effective treatment for blemishes resulting from acne. Acne blemishes are formed when pores become clogged. Oil secreted by the skin glands and dead skin cells can create a clog in the pore. Bacteria can begin to grow in the area, leading to blemishes.

Laser acne treatment can be used with several different kinds of blemishes that can form as a result of acne. Blackheads develop when clogged pores are open at the surface of the skin, while whiteheads occur when the skin is closed over the clog. Papules are red, inflamed blemishes, while pustules have white pus visible at the top. Cysts and nodules are inflamed blemishes that have affected surrounding tissue.

A laser acne treatment targets existing blemishes and the glands that produce oil. Lasers can destroy the acne causing bacteria, improving the blemish and preventing new breakouts from occurring. Lasers can also be used on the oil producing glands. After treatment, less oil is produced, leading to a reduction in the number of clogged pores. 3 or 4 laser treatments can be required for best results, and it has been found the effects can last up to a year after the final treatment. Because it is a newer therapy, studies are still being made on the long term effects. Laser therapy can also be used to treat acne scars.