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I employ all modalities available for the treatment of Acne.
The first are topical medications readily available both by prescription and over the counter. I also readily prescribe systemic antibiotics and Accutane when indicated. Use of hormonal manipulation (birth control pills and anti androgen therapy in appropriate settings.
In the office we also readily use Beta and Alpha Hydroxy peels, Retina A, Differin, and Tazorac for exfoliation and conditioning of the skin. Microdermabrasion is also employed in the treatment of both active and Comedonal acne.
Newer techniques are also available including laser and phototherapy for treatment of active acne especially without the use of antibiotics.
There have been many reports of the improvement in acne with the use of various light sources. These light sources have varied from ordinary intense light to laser light. The basic difference between these lights is both in the purity of the color, intensity, and possible speed in treatment sessions.
What does it do?
Acne is a multifaceted disease that is associated with active and enlarged oil glands with associated increase in acne bacteria of the skin. The various lights attempt to both reduce and kill the bacteria and shrink and damage the oil glands. The result is a reduction in acne that appears to be long-lasting.
How does it work?
The mechanism of action for the reduction of acne is based on the ability of these light sources to damage or destroy the bacteria that causes acne and a reduction in the oil glands.
Acne bacteria contains a substance called porphyrin that actually fluoresces under black light. If you use a different color light at high intensity, this porphyrin substance releases a form of oxygen that kills the bacteria.
In addition, there appears to be some effect on oil glands which also absorb laser light and are damaged.
If you add a synthetic form of porphyrin to the skin, it will be absorbed by both acne bacteria and oil glands. This medication also releases a form of oxygen that kills bacteria and injures oil glands when activated by various lights.
Presently we offer 4 levels of treatment for acne.
The first level is the use of a blue intense light that is very gentle for mild to moderate acne. The second level is a laser treatment for mild to moderate acne with increased redness. The third and fourth levels are combination of the first two treatments with the addition of porphyrin based medication ( Aminolevulinic Acid) (ALA) These are used for the more extensive mild, moderate, and severe Acne
There is minimal to no pain with the blue light and laser. There is an increase in discomfort when the ALA medication is added.
Various studies suggest significant length of time of improvement possibly associated with long lasting reduction in the oil glands. This however will vary patient to patient.
The length of the treatment varies greatly depending on which technique is used and the extent of the body area involved (i.e. Back, face, etc.).
Clinical studies are mixed on what is the best combination and number of treatments. We customized your treatment regimen based on results and reactions.
There are various modalities used in the treatment of acne scars. These vary from Acid peels, Microdermabrasion, Filler Injections (Collagen, Restalyne), laser resurfacing, Cool Touch laser, and surgery.
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