Light and laser therapies are increasingly used alongside or in place of conventional medications to assist in managing active acne and acne scarring [1,2].
From blue LED light to photodynamic therapy (PDT) and Nd:YAG lasers, non-invasive light treatments offer practical options to help target stubborn breakouts, calm redness and improve the appearance of acne scars.
Article Overview
Light and laser therapies provide useful options for patients with acne that persists despite medical therapy, who experience side effects to a medication or want to target lingering post-acne marks.
This article further explores the science behind low-level light therapy, photodynamic treatments and targeted dermal lasers.
You can read the full clinical article on DermNet NZ here.
Key Takeaways for Patients
Different light wavelengths target specific skin concerns at varying depths to address acne through multiple mechanisms:
- Blue LED Light: Reaches the superficial layers of the skin to help target and reduce C. acnes (the primary bacteria associated with breakouts).
- Red LED Light: Penetrates deeper into skin tissue to soothe inflammation, calm redness and support natural skin healing.
- Blue + Red Light Combo: Combines antibacterial and anti-inflammatory mechanisms in a single session, which clinical literature suggests may offer enhanced overall outcomes compared to single-light treatments.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Applies a light-activating solution prior to treatment to help temporarily reduce overactive oil gland activity and minimise future follicle blockages.
- Targeted Lasers (PDL, Nd:YAG, & Infrared): Specialised lasers deliver targeted thermal energy to deeper dermal layers to help reduce excess oil output, reduce the appearance of persistent red marks and encourage collagen remodeling for smoother skin texture.
Why Patients Consider Light & Laser Therapy
Light therapies may be considered for patients who experience side effects from prescription acne medications, find daily topical regimes difficult to maintain or wish to address active breakouts and post-acne marks simultaneously.
Disclaimer: Individual treatment outcomes may vary. A thorough clinical consultation with a qualified medical practitioner is required to assess suitability, discuss expected outcomes and outline any potential risks associated with laser and light procedures.
