Acne, a medical skin condition, can affect the face, chest back shoulders and arms. Although it doesn't necessarily affect our physical health it can certainly take a toll on our mental health. Acne makes us feel self-conscious and ugly, and we may want to hide in our homes. Although acne is completely normal and not to be embarrassed of, it still can cause unnecessary stress in everyday life.
It can seem like there is nothing that works fast enough when an acne breakout occurs. LED Light Therapy is an excellent treatment for acne.
Can light therapy treat acne?
Since the 1990s, dermatologists have used visible light devices to kill bacteria on the surface of the skin. Research-backed light therapy, also known as blue light, phototherapy, or red light, is an acne treatment that uses visible light devices to kill bacteria on the skin.
Light therapy has many benefits
In clinical settings, there are two types of visible light therapy: red light and blue light. Each light has a particular use and while both are effective in treating acne, they have different benefits.
Blue Light Therapy
Acne is most commonly treated with blue light therapy.
Blue light is antimicrobial, which means it can kill several types of bacteria in pores and oil glands that cause acne.
Blue light therapy has shown to be effective in treating acne for up to 77 percent of patients.
The blue light therapy helps to condition your skin by removing free radicals which oxidize your face and cause it to age. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces acne symptoms such as redness.
Red Light Therapy
Although red light therapy does not have the same antibacterial effect as blue light therapy it can be just as effective.
The red light therapy can help promote healing, and it may also reduce the appearance of acne scarring. It has anti-inflammatory properties.
Red light therapy helps to repair and soothe tissue deep beneath the skin's surface. Red light therapy may be a good option if your acne is due to a chronic skin problem.
What to expect from light therapy
You will see a dermatologist before you undergo a phototherapy treatment. You'll find out if you are a candidate for the treatment. They will also tell you what type of light to expect and how many sessions you may need.
You may have to avoid using retinols or other skin care products that thin your skin for two weeks before a session of light therapy.
Ask your dermatologist whether you should stop taking anti-inflammatory medications. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds in the days before your appointment.
Each session lasts 15-30 minutes. During the session you will lay down on a mat or place your head inside a special device that is designed to keep your face steady.
Usually, a dermatologist or nurse who is trained in light therapy will use a device that emits pulses of light to treat different areas of your face. They work in a circular motion. The treatment is completed after several repetitions.
Your treated skin might be pink or red after phototherapy. You may experience some mild peeling of the skin in the treated area.
You may need to avoid your usual skin care routine for a couple of days, particularly exfoliants and topical Vitamin A.
You should wear sunblock every day as recommended by dermatologists. However, your skin will need extra protection during the recovery period.
The American Academy of Dermatologists says that visible light therapy doesn't work for blackheads, whiteheads or nodular acne. This treatment is best suited for mild to moderate acne.
Light therapy side effects
Both blue light therapy and red-light therapy are considered to be safe in general, but they can have some side effects.
Common Side Effects of Light Therapy
redness
bruising
skin peeling
Mild pain or irritation
Other side effects are less common. Rare side effects can include:
Dry pus or blisters at the treatment site
Burns
Dark pigmentation after sun exposure
Pain at the site of treatment
Light therapy: What are the risks?
Phototherapy does not use ultraviolet light, which is why it poses no radiation or skin damage risks. This does not mean that there are no dangers associated with this treatment.
Infection can occur if the area treated is not properly cared for. Call your doctor immediately if you experience pus, blisters, or a fever following light therapy.
Some people should also avoid light therapy. You might not be a good candidate for light treatment for acne if you are taking antibiotics or are extremely sensitive to the sun or get easily burned.
This type of treatment should be avoided if you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant.
Light Therapy at Home
Some products are available for light therapy at home. Light treatment masks and devices that deliver blue light therapy are becoming increasingly popular in recent years.
These treatments are effective, according to research. One small study found that self-applied blue lights therapy for 28 consecutive days reduced the risk of cancer.
The cost of light therapy devices at home may seem high (one device costs $30 for 28-days of treatment), however, compared to the cost of rounds of acne treatments in dermatologist clinics, they are a significant savings.
Conclusion
Visible light therapy can be effective in treating acne for many people.
You should have realistic expectations about how light therapy will work for you. It may help you with your symptoms but it won't eliminate your pimples or blemishes forever.
Before you use light therapy, it's usually a good idea to try out other less expensive options for topical or oral acne treatments. Consult your dermatologist to determine if this is the right type of treatment for you.
