How Well Does Laser Treatment Work for Acne?

Nov 19

Acne treatment often requires a holistic approach, and many find that laser therapy is the missing link in their skincare regimen. This modern technique can improve more than just acne. In fact, it can address many signs of aging, including uneven skin texture, fine lines, and wrinkles.

If you’re curious about laser treatment for acne, you’re in the right place! Join us for a look at the various systems available and which option might be best for your unique skin.

How does laser treatment work for acne?

Laser treatment utilizes advanced technology to address a wide range of skin conditions, including acne. They generally work by killing bacteria and reducing the production of sebum and natural oils that may clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Additionally, anti-inflammatory properties often soothe red, irritated skin. Here’s a closer look at how these systems work:

Can laser treatment work for acne scars?

Yes! Many devices minimize the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin and increasing cell turnover rates to reveal more youthful skin.

What to expect from laser treatment for acne

Laser sessions for acne typically last between 20 and 60 minutes. While some systems require patients to use a numbing or cooling gel before treatment, others — like Neoskin by Aerolase — are gentle on the skin. You may see results after a single session, but most people notice more drastic effects with a series of treatments.

Are there any side effects?

Redness and inflammation are common side effects of laser therapy, but they typically resolve on their own. Your skin may be more susceptible to sun damage in the days following treatment, so be sure to avoid UV exposure and add broad-spectrum sunscreen to your daily skincare routine.

Types of laser treatments for acne

You’ll find a number of laser devices on the market that offer various benefits for people with acne-prone skin. Here are a few common types:

Ablative laser treatment

Ablative lasers are incredibly effective for acne scarring. They use intense wavelengths to remove the outer layer of skin surrounding scars and areas of discoloration. In turn, your body creates more collagen to restore the skin.

However, these lasers are more invasive than other light-based devices and may require medical supervision in a dermatology office. These treatments are often more painful than other options, and it can take several weeks for your skin to heal completely. That said, they also offer some of the most drastic results.

Non-ablative laser treatment

Rather than addressing acne at the surface, non-ablative laser treatments work deep within the skin to stimulate collagen production. They target water, melanin, and hemoglobin to remove discoloration and inhibit overactive sebaceous glands.

These safe and effective systems use diffused broadband light to treat a range of skin conditions, including acne, lesions, stretch marks, redness, and hyperpigmentation. Blue, yellow, and infrared wavelengths can destroy acne-causing bacteria to fight severe or cystic breakouts.

Side effects are generally mild, and there’s very little downtime following treatment. However, you’ll need numerous laser sessions to reap the rewards. When using these devices to treat acne scars and discoloration, the results are typically permanent. The Aerolase laser falls into this category, along with intense pulsed light (IPL) devices.

Fractional laser treatment

You can think of fractional lasers as intermediate devices between ablative and non-ablative systems. They’re often used for skin resurfacing procedures as well as addressing signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. They’re more invasive than non-ablative lasers but less drastic than the ablative type.

These treatments typically require fairly lengthy downtime and may come with a range of side effects. However, they can be effective for acne and acne scars.

How to prepare for laser treatment for acne

To achieve the best results from laser treatments for acne and reduce the risk of adverse effects, it’s essential to care for your skin properly in the weeks before your appointment. Here are some of our top tips to keep in mind:

Avoid sun exposure

Sun exposure before your laser treatment can lead to painful burns. Remember, laser devices utilize concentrated light waves to address acne, so skin that is trying to recover from recent sun exposure may not respond well to these treatments. At least a month before your session, start wearing high-SPF sunscreen and avoid direct UV exposure.

Avoid harsh skincare products

Harsh active ingredients like retinols, chemical exfoliants, and certain acids can make your skin more sensitive to light and increase the adverse effects of laser treatment.

Wait on other skin treatments

Chemical peels, microneedling, and other skin care treatments may lower your skin’s protective properties and lead to increased side effects. You’ll need to avoid these services in the weeks leading up to your acne laser treatment.

Discuss any medications with your provider

Medication may increase photosensitivity and make laser treatments more painful. Certain drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin can also act as blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding and bruising from treatment. Be sure to discuss any prescription or over-the-counter medications you’ve taken recently.

Your journey to flawless skin starts here at MOOD Skin & Body!

MOOD Skin & Body is here to help you conquer acne once and for all! Whether you’re looking for the ultimate laser treatment or a comprehensive approach to acne treatment, we’re here to help!

Rayven Baca