How does Blue Light Treatment work?
It works by exposing the skin to a low-intensity blue light source which is thought to destroy propionibacterium acnes' (P. acnes), the bacterium that causes acne inflammation.
The bacteria P. acnes, forms in the sebaceous glands where it causes inflammation. The idea is that acne outbreaks can be treated by destroying this bacteria.
How is Blue Light Therapy adminstrated?
Blue light treatments are usually done through a series of sessions because the bacteria multiplies rapidly, so ongoing treatments are necessary for best results.
These treatments can be administered alone or in combination with other systems.
When the treatment is administrated you can either sit or lie.
A light source is placed close to your face for about 20 to 30 minutes.
No ultraviolet (UV) light is used making it safe... there is no danger of skin cancer.
For most people treatments are repeated weekly for several weeks and will continue until optimal results are achieved. Some people experience improvement after several months of treatments, other may need a longer period of time.
How many treatments you will have to take will depend on how bad your acne is. To make sure that your acne does not return monthly maintenance treatments are suggested.
Does Blue Light Treatments work?
You might see significant improvements of your acne in just two to four weeks. There are different types of blue light therapy but they all work by providing a specific frequency of blue light targeting the P. acnes bacteria.
Blue light appears to work better when merged with other systems.
- Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy - Photodynamic therapy involves the use of photosensitive chemicals, and controlled and directed laser beams.
- a combination of blue and red light.
- Diode Laser Therapy - destroys sebaceous glands in the dermis without harming the outer layer of skin. This laser treatment can be painful, Side effects nay include temporary redness and swelling of the treated areas.
- Photodynamic Therapy - combines topical medications and light-based therapies. Side effects could include redness, swelling, crusting and acne flare-ups.
- Photopneumatic Therapy - uses vacuum suction to remove the oil and dead skin cells that form in the sebaceous glands. Blue and red light therapy to destroy P. acnes and reduce inflammation.
If you who suffer from acne or acne scares, blue light acne therapy may help you to improving your problem. If you are considering using this or some of the other blue light system, see a dermatologist first.
